48 ' CARNIVORES. 
sharp, and curved claws, which may be partially retractile. The single upper 
molar tooth on each side is characterised by its narrowness from front to back, and 
its moderate dimensions. With the exception of the wolverene, all the members of 
the group are distinguished by their long and weasel-like bodies and short legs, 
while all are terrestrial and arboreal in their habits. Exclusive of the members 
of the present genus and one South-African species, the group is mainly confined 
to the northern parts of Europe, Asia, and North America, only a single representa- 
tive occurring in Peninsular India, Burma, and the Malayan region, and one in 
South America. 
The tayra and grison are characterised by having a total of 34 teeth, of which 
are incisors, + canines, # premolars, and $ molars. Their skulls may be readily 
Go{oe 


THE TAYRA (% nat. size). 
distinguished from those of the martens and weasels by the tubercle on the inner 
side of the upper flesh-tooth being placed near the middle of the tooth, instead of 
close up to its front edge. They walk to a great extent on the soles of their 
feet, which are completely naked, so that their feet are almost, but not quite, 
plantigrade. The claws cannot be retracted. The head is characterised by its 
breadth and flatness, and is furnished with very small and rounded ears. The 
tail varies in length from about one-half to three-quarters the length of the head 
and body. 
The tayra (Galictis barbara) is the largest species, and may be 
compared in size to the common otter, its total length being a little 
over a yard, of which rather less than half is oceupied by the tail. The body and 
Tayra. 
limbs are usually of a uniform dark brown colour, becoming almost black in some 
individuals, while in others it is lighter. There is always a lighter spot on the 
chest. The head and neck are generally grey, but in two immature individuals in 
