The third synchronised Nilgiri Tahr Survey 2026 began on 24 April 2026 as a joint exercise of the Tamil Nadu and Kerala forest departments. The four-day census is scheduled to end on 27 April 2026 and covers major habitats in the Western Ghats.
Nilgiri Tahr
Nilgiri tahr is a mountain ungulate and the state animal of Tamil Nadu. Its scientific name is Nilgiritragus hylocrius, and it is endemic to the Western Ghats of India.
Survey Coverage In Tamil Nadu
The 2026 survey in Tamil Nadu covers 177 locations across 14 forest divisions and 10 districts. The exercise includes Anamalai Tiger Reserve, Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve, Srivilliputhur Megamalai Tiger Reserve, and Mukurthi National Park.
Survey Methodology
- The 2026 census uses direct sightings as one method of enumeration.
- The survey also uses drone surveillance for habitat-level observation.
- Indirect evidence such as vegetation samples and pellet samples is being collected for laboratory analysis.
- The scope of the exercise includes monitoring animal disturbances and health factors.
Population Data
The joint Nilgiri tahr census in 2025 recorded 2,668 individuals across Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Kerala recorded 1,365 Nilgiri tahrs in 2025, while Tamil Nadu recorded 1,303.
Important Protected Areas
Eravikulam National Park in Kerala recorded 841 Nilgiri tahrs in 2025 and had the largest contiguous population in the two-state survey. Mukurthi National Park in Tamil Nadu is another key habitat for the species in the Nilgiri hills.
Project Nilgiri Tahr
Project Nilgiri Tahr was launched by the Tamil Nadu Government in 2022 for the period 2022 to 2027. The programme includes scientific surveys, radio-collaring, and habitat restoration for the species.
Last Modified: April 25, 2026