Nilgiri Tahr

Nilgiri Tahr Latest News

According to the third synchronised population survey the population of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, has increased to an estimated 1,364.

About Nilgiri Tahr

• It is a mountain ungulate endemic to the southern part of the Western Ghats. 
• It is also known by the name Nilgiri Ibex or simply Ibex. Locally the animal is called ‘Varayaadu’.
• It is the only mountain ungulate in southern India.
• Habitat: It inhabits the open montane grassland habitat of the southwestern ghats montane rain forests Eco region. 
• At elevations ranging from 1200 to 2600 m, the jungle opens into grasslands interspersed with pockets of stunted forests, known as ‘sholas.’
• Distribution: It is found in a roughly 400 km stretch in the Western Ghats, which falls in the states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. 
• The Eravikulam National Park (Kerala) has the highest density and largest surviving population of Nilgiri tahr. 
• Features of Nilgiri Tahr
  • These are stocky goats with short, coarse fur and a bristly mane. 
  • The males are found to be larger than the females, and have a darker color when mature. 
  • Both sexes have curved horns, which are larger in the males.
• Conservation Status
  • IUCN: Endangered 
  • Wildlife (Protection) Act of India, 1972: Schedule I.
• Threats: Habitat loss due to rampant deforestation, competition with domestic livestock, hydroelectric projects in Nilgiri tahr habitat, and monoculture plantations.

Source: TH

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