Nilgiri Tahr – Endangered Icon of the Western Ghats

Nilgiri Tahr – Endangered Icon of the Western Ghats | UPSC Environment Notes

Nilgiri Tahr: Conservation and Significance

News Context: A captivating photograph of the Nilgiri Tahr was featured as the "Picture of the Week" in the newspaper, highlighting its status as an endangered species.

Habitat: Exclusively found in the Western Ghats of India, primarily in parts of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. It is an endemic species, meaning it is native and restricted to a specific geographical region.

Biological Features: Resembles a goat but is a distinct species. Males are larger and darker in color than females. They live in groups, often exceeding 150 individuals. Their horns indicate their age.

Local Name: Varayadu.

State Animal: The Nilgiri Tahr is the State Animal of Tamil Nadu.

Saddleback: A grown-up male Nilgiri Tahr is referred to as a "Saddleback".

Conservation Status:

IUCN: Endangered.

Wildlife Protection Act: Placed in Schedule I, granting it the highest level of protection against hunting.

Key Locations: The largest population of Nilgiri Tahr in India is found in Eravikulam National Park in Kerala.

Threats: Habitat loss, plantation loss, and climate change are significant threats to its population.

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