Recently, the Tamil Nadu Forest Department has commenced the third synchronised survey of the Nilgiri Tahr.
About Nilgiri Tahr:
The Nilgiri Tahr 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 ecoregion.
Distribution: It is found in the Western Ghats and in states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
The Eravikulam National Park (Kerala) has the highest density and largest surviving population of Nilgiri tahr.
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.
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