Context:
Tamil Nadu’s 3rd synchronised Nilgiri Tahr estimation in April 2026 recorded 1,364 individuals, up 4.68% from 2025, when 1,303 individuals were recorded. Anamalai Hills hold 44.87% and Nilgiri Landscape holds 29.25% of the population.
Nilgiri Tahr
Scientific Name:
Nilgiritragus hylocrius
IUCN Status:
Endangered
Wildlife Protection Act, 1972:
Schedule I
State Animal:
Tamil Nadu
Characteristics
- Largest wild mountain ungulate, or hoofed mammal, of southern India
- Herbivore
- Excellent cliff climber
- Endemic to Western Ghats
- Indicator species of Shola-Grassland ecosystem
Distribution and Habitat
States:
Tamil Nadu and Kerala
Major Habitats:
- Eravikulam National Park — largest population
- Mukurthi National Park
Range:
Kanyakumari Hills → Anamalai Hills → Nilgiri Hills
Important Facts
- Anamudi Peak, 2,695 m, in the Anamalai Hills is the highest peak of South India and Peninsular India.
- Doddabetta Peak, 2,637 m, is the highest peak of the Nilgiri Hills.
