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tayra

tayra

Colombia, Ecuador, Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of)
Status
Least Concern

IUCN conservation assessment category

Habitat
Forest, Grassland, Wetland

Primary ecological niche & biome

Diet
small vertebrates, insects, and fresh forest prey

Dietary type and primary food source

Activity
nocturnal

Diurnal, nocturnal, or active patterns

Scientific Summary

GBIF Taxonomic Backbone & Wikipedia Registry Profile

DISTRIBUTION: Sinaloa and Tamaulipas (Mexico), south to Argentina.
Biology & Conservation

Ecologically, the conservation status of tayra is officially designated as Least Concern. Current field registries estimate a global population composed of an unquantified number of individuals, making habitat preservation critical to maintaining their wild populations.

It is typically endemic to forest, grassland, wetland, showing great physiological synergy with its surroundings. In terms of dietary preferences, it relies primarily on a diet of small vertebrates, insects, and fresh forest prey. It exhibits specialized adaptations centered around a nocturnal activity pattern, optimizing its energy conservation and interactions within its native ecosystem. The species has a typical natural lifespan of approximately 12 years, allowing it to adapt and mature through structured generational cycles.

Ongoing biological monitoring and ecological advocacy emphasize the importance of protecting this species. The stability of its food chain and the prevention of fragmentation in its primary range are vital for the continued survival of tayra.

Energy & Activity Profile
Habitat & Adaptation Index
Quick Facts
Native RangeColombia, Ecuador, Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of)
Habitat RangeForest, Grassland, Wetland
Lifespan12 Yrs
StatusLeast Concern
ScientificEira barbara
Registry Info
Lifespan12 years
KingdomAnimalia
FamilyMustelidae