[tahy-rah] 
| 1. | a member of a powerful family in Japan that ruled the country 1160–85. |
| 2. | former name of Iwaki. |
taira
weasellike mammal of tropical forests from southern Mexico through South America to northern Argentina. The tayra is short-legged, yet slender and agile, weighing from 2.7 to 7 kg (5.95 to 15.4 pounds). The body, measuring about 60-68 cm (24-27 inches), is covered with coarse but smooth, dark fur. The bushy tail is 39-47 cm (15-18.5 inches) long. The tayra's dark skin is covered by brown or black fur that is commonly paler on the head and neck. The throat and chest are often marked with a light-coloured, triangular spot.
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