Galictis

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Galictis
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Mammalia
Order: Carnivora
Family: Mustelidae
Subfamily: Mustelinae
Genus: Galictis
Bell, 1826
Species

Galictis cuja
Galictis vittata

Galictis range

The grison, also known as the South American glutton, is a neotropical mustelid of South America. Comprising the genus Galictis, it is divided into two species: the greater grison (Galictis vittata), which is found widely in South America, through Central America to southern Mexico; and the lesser grison (Galictis cuja), which is restricted to the southern half of South America. In Spanish it is referred to as a huroncito (literally "little ferret") or grisón and in Portuguese as a furão.[citation needed]

Grisons measure up to half a meter in length, and weigh between 1 and 3 kilograms. The lesser grison is slightly smaller than the greater. The grisons generally resemble a mink, but with a shorter tail, shorter legs, and more robust body. The pelage along the back is a frosted gray with black legs, throat, face, and belly. A sharp white stripe extends from the forehead to the back of the neck.

They are found in a wide range of habitats from semi-open shrub and woodland to low-elevation forests. They burrow and nest in holes in fallen trees or rock crevices. They are omnivorous.

[edit] References

  • Nowak, Ronald M. (2005). Walker's Carnivores of the World. Baltimore: Johns Hopkins Press ISBN 0-8018-8032-7
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