Nilgiri Tahr

Nilgiri Tahr, the State animal of Tamil Nadu, has shown signs of population revival in the Coimbatore Forest Division.

• During a recent synchronised census, five Nilgiri tahrs were sighted at Periyattumalai in Madukkarai forest range, marking a return after over a decade.

• The Nilgiri Tahr is a vulnerable species and endemic to the Western Ghats.

• It is the only mountain ungulate in southern India, among 12 such species in India.

• Despite its appearance, the Nilgiri Tahr is more closely related to sheep than goats.

• It is well-known for its “gravity-defying” ability to climb steep cliffs.

• The Eravikulam National Park in Kerala has the largest population of Nilgiri Tahrs and is a key tourist spot near Munnar.

• The species has been referenced in ancient Sangam Tamil literature, particularly in the epics Silappathikaram and Sivakasindamani.

• The recent sightings indicate potential habitat recovery in regions previously thought to be vacated.