Nilgiri Tahr Population Rises in Tamil Nadu

Context:

Tamil Nadu’s conservation initiatives for the endangered Nilgiri Tahr under Project Nilgiri Tahr have yielded encouraging results. The third synchronised Nilgiri Tahr survey conducted in April 2026 estimated the population at 1,364 individuals, reflecting a 4.68% increase from the 2025 count of 1,303 and an overall rise of more than 32% compared to 2024.

About the Nilgiri Tahr:

The Nilgiri Tahr (Nilgiritragus hylocrius) is an endangered mountain ungulate endemic to the southern Western Ghats of India, particularly in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. It is the State Animal of Tamil Nadu and is locally known as “Varayaadu”.

Key Features:

• • Only mountain ungulate species found in southern India.
  • Adapted to tropical montane grasslands and shola forests.
  • Diurnal in nature and active during daylight hours.
  • Exhibits strong sexual dimorphism, with males being larger and darker in colour.
  • Both males and females possess curved horns.
  • Serves as an important ecological indicator species for high-altitude grassland ecosystems.

Habitat and Distribution:

The Nilgiri Tahr is endemic to a narrow stretch of approximately 400 km in the Western Ghats, extending from the Nilgiri Hills in the north to the Asambu Hills in the south.

Major Habitats:

• • • Eravikulam National Park (Kerala)
    • Mukurthi National Park (Tamil Nadu)
    • Grass Hills National Park (Tamil Nadu)
    • Agasthyamalai Landscape
  • The species is generally found at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,600 metres above sea level and inhabits steep rocky cliffs, grasslands, and shola forest ecosystems.
  • The Nilgiri Tahr is considered an indicator species for the health of montane grasslands and shola ecosystems. Conservation of these habitats not only protects the species but also safeguards biodiversity, water security, and ecosystem services in the Western Ghats.

Conservation Status:

International and National Protection

• • IUCN Red List: Endangered
  • Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule I

The species faces threats from habitat fragmentation, invasive species, poaching, climate change, and forest fires.

About Project Nilgiri Tahr:

Tamil Nadu launched Project Nilgiri Tahr as a dedicated conservation programme aimed at securing the long-term survival of the species.

Key Components

• • Scientific population monitoring.
  • Radio-telemetry tracking.
  • Habitat restoration.
  • Grassland ecosystem conservation.
  • Fire prevention and management.
  • Community participation and awareness.

Conclusion:

The rise in the Nilgiri Tahr population demonstrates the success of coordinated conservation efforts undertaken by Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Continued habitat protection, grassland restoration, fire management, and technological monitoring under Project Nilgiri Tahr will be crucial for ensuring the long-term survival of this unique and endangered species of the Western Ghats.