Nilgiri Tahr: Tamilnadu's Animal

The Nilgiri tahr is the only one of India's 12 species of mountain ungulates to be found in the south of the country. It also acts as the symbol for Tamil Nadu.

The Nilgiri tahr, which previously inhabited the whole Western Ghats, is now confined to a few remote, small locations. From its historical range, a sizable portion of its populaduals.tion has been wiped out. Hunting and habitat loss are seriously stressing the current populations. This Western Ghats endemic species is protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act of India, 1972, and is classed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List of Threatened species. Estimates place the wild Nilgiri Tahr population at 3,122 individuals.

POPULATION SIZE  -  1,800-2,000

PERIOD OF LIFE     -   3–9 YEARS

 WEIGHT                   -   50–100 KG

 HEIGHT                    -   80-110 Cm

 LENGTH                   -   90-140cm

   

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The Nilgiri tahr has the following important characteristics:

1. Habitat: 

The Western Ghats, a mountain range that runs along the southwest side of the Indian subcontinent, are where Nilgiri tahrs are most commonly found. These areas are composed of montane grasslands and shrublands. They can be found most frequently between 2,000 and 2,600 meters (6,600 and 8,500 feet) above sea level.

2. Physical Qualities:

The Nilgiri tahrs have sturdy bodies, distinctively curved horns, and are medium-sized herbivores. They blend in with their rocky surroundings because to their dark brown to grayish-brown coloration.

Both males and females have curled horns Males teeth are larger and stronger. The horns can grow up to 40 centimeters (16 inches) in length.

3. Behavior:

Female Nilgiri tahrs establish small, dependable groups of five to twenty people, usually including their young. During the breeding season, these groups of adult males, who are frequently solitary, are joined. They are herbivores, and in their high-altitude environments they graze mostly on grasses and bushes. Adult males are territorial and will defend their breeding territory by attacking other males with their horns.

4. Replication:

Breeding Season: The Nilgiri tahrs breed from November to January, which is their regular breeding season.

Females typically give birth to a single calf after a 6 to 8-month gestation period. Calves have a camouflage covering at birth that helps them blend in with their rocky surroundings, thus they require special care. Mothers look after and safeguard their children.

5.Status of Conservation: 

Nilgiri tahrs are classed as "Endangered" on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, which indicates their conservation status. Their survival is primarily threatened by habitat loss through deforestation, habitat fragmentation, and competition for resources with domestic livestock. Significant concerns also come from animal illness spread and theft.

6. Conservation Efforts: 

Protected areas in the Western Ghats, such India's Eravikulam National Park and the Nilgiri Hills, have been established as part of efforts to preserve the Nilgiri tahr. The preservation of the animal and its habitat depends on these protected areas. conservationist groupsWork to promote sustainable land use methods and lessen human-wildlife conflict in the area.

An emblematic animal of the Western Ghats, the Nilgiri tahr is essential to preserving the ecological harmony of its high-altitude environment. To safeguard the long-term survival of this rare and endangered species, conservation measures are still being made.

Threats To Nilgiri Tahr:

   The Nilgiri tahr is in danger from a variety of sources, including :

Due to widespread deforestation, conflict with domestic livestock, hydroelectric projects in the Nilgiri  tahr habitat, and monoculture plantations, there has been a significant loss of habitat.

Hunts occasionally for its skin and meat.