The tayra (Eira barbara), also known as cabeza de mate or viejo de monte, is an agile mammal belonging to the weasel and ferret family. In Ecuador, it inhabits the Amazon, the Coast, and the Andean foothills, standing out as one of the least understood carnivores in the jungle.

Surprising facts you didn't know

• A "farmer" in the shadows: Despite being related to carnivorous animals, tayras consume large amounts of fruit. They are capable of picking green bananas and hiding them to ripen, returning days later to eat the softened pulp.
• The giant of its family: It reaches nearly one meter in length (including its long tail) and can weigh up to 7 kg, making it the largest member of the mustelid family in Ecuador.
• Unique identification: They have a characteristic yellowish patch on their chest or throat. The fascinating part is that this pattern works like a fingerprint; no two are alike, allowing researchers to identify individual animals.
• Tireless acrobat: While it moves well on the ground (walking with an arched back and making small hops), it is an exceptional climber. It can jump incredible distances between treetops using its tail as a balancer.
• Different from its relatives: Unlike most ferrets and weasels that prefer hunting at night, the tayra is active during the day, making it a curious daytime traveler of the forests

Choco Toucan Reserve and Lodge in Mindo Ecuador