jaguarundi

Also known as eyra, an elusive, rare cat found in low, thick brushland from southern Texas and Arizona to northern Argentina. The jaguarundi also is called otter cat for its short, otterlike legs, slender body, and unusual adaptability to water.

The jaguarundi grows to a length of about 55 to 77 cm (about 21 to 30 in), with a tail of about 33 to 60 cm (about 13 to 24 in). It stands about 30 cm (about 12 in) high at the shoulders, and weighs about 4.5 to 9 kg (about 10 to 20 lb). The coat is a reddish-brown or a dull gray.

The jaguarundi lives in impenetrable brushy undergrowth and thorny woodland thickets, which protect it from larger animals. Unlike many other cats, the jaguarundi is a willing swimmer. It prefers living near water, where prey is more abundant. Speed and agility make the jaguarundi a skilled hunter; it hunts in the morning and evening by running down small mammals and birds on the ground. This behavior differs from most cats, which hunt at night by sneaking up on their prey.

The jaguarundi is unique because it has 36 pairs of chromosomes instead of the 38 pairs found in other cats. Two to four young are born about 60 days after mating.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service lists the jaguarundi as an endangered species. It is also protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species.