Tayra

  [Eira barbara]
  Habitat: Tropical forests of Central America, South America and on the island of Trinidad
  Length: 24-28” (plus 14-18” tail)
  Weight: 6-16.5 lbs
  Average Lifespan: 18 years
  Gestation Period: 63-67 days
  Number of Young: 2-3
  Conservation Status: Least Concern

  –  An excellent climber, the tayra can leap for considerable distances and bound from branch to branch in the trees.
  –  Tayras feed primarily on fruit, honey, insects, small vertebrates, and carrion.
  –  When alarmed, the tayra gives a short, barking call and seeks protection in the nearest tree.
  –  The tayra was once used by the indigenous people of the area to control rodents.