From zero to 26: Nilgiri Tahr shows signs of revival in Coimbatore forest division
Coimbatore: The third synchronised population estimation of Nilgiri Tahr has recorded signs of revival for Tamil Nadu’s state animal in the fragmented habitats of the Coimbatore forest division.
The survey was held from April 24 to 27 across 176 blocks in 14 forest divisions under Project Nilgiri Tahr. In the Coimbatore division, the Nilgiri Tahr population was estimated at 26, with a lower limit of 20 and upper limit of 51. This is a sharp increase from zero recorded in 2024 and nine in 2025. Forest officials said the jump indicates either improved population estimation efforts or recolonisation of suitable habitats.
Out of seven forest ranges in Coimbatore division, Nilgiri Tahrs inhabit select higher-altitude landscapes in Madukkarai and Boluvampatti ranges. Their habitats are spread across Chinnaattumalai and Periyaattumalai in Madukkarai range, and Kunjiranmudi, Kurudimalai and Vellingirimalai in Boluvampatti range. Five Nilgiri tahrs were sighted by enumerators at Periyattumalai after a gap of over a decade, reconfirming tahr presence there.
Field staff did not get direct sightings in Madukkarai range during April 24 to 27. Officials said this was likely due to a forest fire on the contiguous Kerala side. The population that roams across Kerala and Tamil Nadu had reportedly moved to lower elevations on the Kerala side. After the fire was contained, another round of survey was conducted and staff had direct sightings from a distance through binoculars.
Indirect evidence such as pellets and hoof-marks was also recorded at other traditional habitats like Kunjiranmudi in Boluvampatti range and Kurudi Malai spread across Boluvampatti and Coimbatore ranges. The sighting at Chinnaattumalai after a decade also indicates potential recovery of that habitat and dispersal to the connected landscape.
The statewide survey under Project Nilgiri Tahr deployed nearly 800 field staff who covered around 2,000 km of challenging terrain. Officials said encouraging signs of breeding were seen statewide, with many herds including kids and young individuals. Grass Hills National Park in Valparai and Mukurthi National Park in the Nilgiris recorded good populations, which officials called vital for maintaining fragile grasslands.
