Why in news?
A synchronised survey conducted in early 2025 across Tamil Nadu and Kerala found that the population of the Nilgiri tahr, Tamil Nadu’s state animal, increased by 21 % over the previous year.
About the survey
- The bi‑annual survey covered over 3,100 km on foot through 177 blocks in 14 forest divisions.
- It involved 786 forest staff and volunteers and used drone surveillance, radio‑collaring and community participation.
- The population rose from 1,031 individuals in 2024 to 1,303 in 2025.
- Top locations included Akkamalai Grass Hills in the Anamalai Tiger Reserve (334 animals) and Mukurthi National Park (282 animals).
- The survey forms part of the Nilgiri Tahr Recovery Project launched in 2022.
About the Nilgiri tahr
- Scientific name: Nilgiritragus hylocrius. It is locally known as the varai aad or varayadu.
- IUCN status: Endangered. It is protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act 1972.
- Habitat: endemic to the southern Western Ghats (Tamil Nadu and Kerala). It occupies steep montane grasslands and shola forests at elevations of 1,200–2,600 m. Its current range is a 400 km stretch from the Nilgiris to Kanyakumari.
- Physical features: Stocky build with short, coarse fur; males have a distinctive silver saddle patch. They are sure‑footed climbers adapted to rugged cliffs. Closely related to Himalayan and Arabian tahrs but adapted to tropical, wet climates.
- Biological aspects: Gestation lasts around 180 days, with births in January–February. Sexual maturity is reached at about three years, and the average lifespan in the wild is 3–3.5 years, though individuals may live up to nine years. They are diurnal grazers, most active at dawn and dusk.
Significance of the population increase: The rise indicates that conservation measures—habitat protection, anti‑poaching patrols and community awareness—are showing results. Continued monitoring, restoration of grasslands and control of invasive species remain essential to ensure long‑term recovery.