Asik SyedThe Nilgiri Tahr, often called the Saddleback for the silvery-grey patch on adult males’ backs, is a rare mountain ungulate native to the misty highlands of the Western Ghats in southern India. Also known as the Nilgiri Ibex, this majestic creature is not only the state animal of Tamil Nadu but also a living link to ancient Tamil heritage, celebrated in classical literature for centuries.
A large-scale, joint census to monitor this endangered species is set to take place from April 24 to 27, bringing together efforts from Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
The Census Mission
This upcoming survey is particularly significant, marking the 50th anniversary of Eravikulam National Park, a key sanctuary for the Nilgiri Tahr. The operation spans 89 forest blocks in Kerala and 176 in Tamil Nadu, showcasing a coordinated effort between forest departments, wildlife experts, and trained volunteers.
To get an accurate headcount, the team will use a combination of camera traps, pellet sampling for DNA analysis, and the bounded count method, a scientific technique for estimating animal population density.
Where They Roam
The Nilgiri Tahr calls the southern Western Ghats home, thriving in the steep cliffs and high-altitude grasslands of Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Their preferred habitats are tropical montane grasslands, Shola forests, and rocky escarpments, with Eravikulam National Park hosting the largest known population.
These animals are diurnal (active during the day) and have evolved to endure the cool, damp climate of their mountainous terrain—making them both resilient and elusive.
At Risk: Conservation Urgency
Despite their adaptability, Nilgiri Tahrs face significant threats. Classified as Endangered by the IUCN, and protected under Schedule-I of the Wildlife Protection Act (1972), their numbers have suffered due to habitat degradation, hunting, and climate change.
A 2015 WWF India report estimated the wild population at just 3,122 individuals—a steep decline from their historical distribution across the Ghats.
Project Nilgiri Tahr: A Conservation Blueprint
In a groundbreaking move, the Tamil Nadu Government launched Project Nilgiri Tahr in December 2022, with a 5-year conservation plan backed by a budget of ₹25.14 crore. This ambitious initiative focuses on:
- Population monitoring
- Radio telemetry tracking
- Habitat restoration
- Reintroducing Tahrs to former ranges
- Mitigating current threats
The project blends scientific research with on-ground action, signaling a renewed hope for the future of these cliff-dwelling icons.
Asik Syed
