Tamil Nadu's Nilgiri Tahr Population Sees Significant Growth in 2026

Tamil Nadu's recent survey reveals a significant increase in the Nilgiri Tahr population, now estimated at 1,364. This marks a 4.68% rise from last year and over 32% from 2024, showcasing the success of conservation efforts. The survey, conducted in collaboration with the Kerala Forest Department, highlights the importance of habitat protection. With the Anamalai Hills as a key refuge, officials stress the need for ongoing measures to safeguard these animals from threats like forest fires. Additionally, the state has launched initiatives to improve urban climate resilience, further emphasizing its commitment to environmental conservation.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 6, 2026, 12:42 IST

Encouraging Results from Nilgiri Tahr Survey

Nilgiri Tahr (Photo: @supriyasahuias/X)

Chennai, June 6: The conservation efforts in Tamil Nadu aimed at protecting the endangered Nilgiri Tahr have shown promising results, with the latest synchronized survey estimating the population of this state animal at 1,364 in 2026.

This figure represents a 4.68% increase from the previous year's count of 1,303 and a remarkable rise of over 32% compared to 2024, showcasing the effectiveness of ongoing habitat protection and monitoring initiatives.

The results of the third synchronized survey were announced by Forests Minister R.V. Ranjithkumar and Environment Minister Dr. V.K. Rajeev.

Conducted from April 24 to 27, the survey encompassed 177 survey blocks across 126 forest beats in 43 forest ranges throughout all 14 divisions where Nilgiri Tahr are found in the state.

This extensive survey was carried out in collaboration with the Kerala Forest Department and involved frontline forest staff, wildlife scientists, and independent observers.

Officials noted that this large-scale survey provided a thorough assessment of the species across its known habitats in the Western Ghats. The report indicated that the Anamalai Hills serve as the primary refuge for the Nilgiri Tahr, housing 44.87% of the total population in the state. The Nilgiris landscape contributed another 29.25%, underscoring the vital role of high-altitude grassland ecosystems in the survival of this species.

The survey documented Nilgiri Tahr at elevations ranging from 270 meters to 2,630 meters above sea level, with a male-to-female ratio estimated at 55:100.

Supriya Sahu, Additional Chief Secretary for Environment, Climate Change, and Forests, stated that the increase reflects the positive impact of targeted conservation strategies implemented under Project Nilgiri Tahr. She mentioned that the population might have been even higher if not for the forest fires that impacted parts of their habitat.

She emphasized that protecting grasslands and preventing fires are crucial for the long-term survival of these animals.

Officials also pointed out the use of the Android-based ‘VARUDAI’ mobile application during the survey, which facilitated real-time data transmission and enhanced the accuracy of data collection.

In addition, the state government released findings from its annual synchronized bird surveys, which recorded 393 bird species with an estimated population of 6.01 lakh.

The terrestrial bird survey identified 391 species and approximately 2.24 lakh birds, while Tamil Nadu's inaugural comprehensive raptor assessment noted 5,712 sightings of birds of prey.

The Environment Department also introduced the country's first state-level Standard Operating Procedure for Cool Roof Coating Application, aimed at addressing rising urban heat and enhancing climate resilience across Tamil Nadu.