Nilgiri Tahr

Why in news?

Recently, the Tamil Nadu State Forest Department has proposed hydroelectric project could cut through the heart of the Nilgiri Tahr’s domain in the upper Nilgiris.

• Scientific Name – Nilgiritragus hylocrius
• It is the only mountain ungulate (large mammals with hooves) in southern India amongst the 12 species present in India.
• State animal – It is the state animal of Tamil Nadu, and also known as Varaiaadu in Tamil.
• Historic mentions – It has been richly mentioned in Tamil Sangam literature like Silappathigaaram  and Seevagasinthamani.
• Habitat – It prefers high-altitude, open montane grasslands and rocky cliffs, and they avoid low-elevation forests.
• They are typically found between 1,200 and 2,600 meters above sea level.
• Distribution – It is endemic to small stretch of the Western Ghats in Tamil Nadu and Kerala, is primarily found in the highlands of southern India.
• Diet – Herbivores, primarily graze on grasses, shrubs, and other vegetation found in their high-altitude environment.
• Largest population – The Eravikulam National Park in Anamalai hills, Kerala.
• Synchronized Nilgiri Tahr Survey 2025 – Recorded a total population of 2,668 tahrs across Tamil Nadu and Kerala, with 1,303 in Tamil Nadu and 1,365 in Kerala.
• October 7 – Niligiri Tahr Day (Tamil Nadu)
• Conservation status –
  • IUCN – Endangered.
  • Wildlife (Protection) Act of India, 1972 – Schedule I.

Quick Fact

References

1. The Hindu | Hydroelectric project in Nilgiri Tahr habitat
2. WWF | Nilgiri Tahr
3. TN Forest Department | Nilgiri Tahr