Nilgiri Tahr Conservation: Ecology, Habitat and IUCN Status

The Nilgiri Tahr is a rare mountain ungulate endemic to southern India and an important flagship species of the Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot.

Key Features

• Only Mountain Ungulate in Southern India:
  Among the 12 mountain ungulate species found in India, the Nilgiri Tahr is the only one native to southern India.

• Habitat:

  • Endemic to the Western Ghats

  • Inhabits high-altitude shola–grassland ecosystems

  • Found at elevations between 1,200–2,600 metres

• State Animal:

  • Official State Animal of Tamil Nadu

Physical Appearance

• Stocky body with short, coarse fur

• Mature males, called “Saddlebacks”, develop a distinctive light-coloured patch on their backs

• Both males and females possess curved horns

Conservation Status

• IUCN Red List: Endangered

• Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I (Highest legal protection in India)

• CITES: Appendix I (Highest level of international trade protection)

Conservation Measures

Project Nilgiri Tahr

Launched by the Tamil Nadu government, Project Nilgiri Tahr focuses on:

• Habitat restoration

• Scientific population assessment

• Disease monitoring

• Strengthening protection measures

This project aims to revive fragmented populations and ensure long-term ecological sustainability.

Key Protected Areas

• Eravikulam National Park

  • Hosts the largest surviving population of Nilgiri Tahr

• Mukurthi National Park

• Anamalai Tiger Reserve

Importance of UPSC and Environment Exams

• Species endemic to biodiversity hotspots

• Example of high-altitude grassland ecosystem conservation

• Linked with habitat fragmentation, climate change, and invasive species issues

• Important under the Wildlife Protection Act and international conventions

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