Nilgiri Tahr Population Surges
The 2025 joint census of Nilgiri tahr populations in Kerala and Tamil Nadu has recorded 2,668 individuals. Kerala accounts for 1,365 tahrs while Tamil Nadu has 1,303. This growth marks successful conservation efforts and calls for enhanced interstate collaboration.
Population Distribution
- The Eravikulam National Park (ENP) in Kerala hosts the largest contiguous Nilgiri tahr population in the state, with 841 animals.
- Tamil Nadu’s major populations are found in Mukurthi National Park and Grass Hills National Park, which lie near the Kerala border.
- About 90% of Kerala’s tahr population is concentrated in the Munnar landscape.
- The survey covered 89 census blocks in Kerala and 182 in Tamil Nadu, confirming the species’ presence across 19 forest divisions in Kerala.
Conservation Practices
Controlled burning in ENP grasslands has been very important in sustaining the tahr population. This rotational burning is conducted every three years over 97 sq km to maintain nutritious grasslands suitable for grazing. Animals are temporarily relocated during burning to protect them. This practice, based on traditional knowledge from the Muthuvan tribal community, promotes fresh grass growth and enhances food security and reproductive success among tahrs.
Ecological Balance and Predator-Prey Dynamics
Nilgiri tahrs form a major prey base for apex predators such as tigers and leopards within ENP. Predator presence helps regulate tahr numbers naturally. The availability of prey inside the park reduces predator movement into human habitations, lowering human-wildlife conflict. The park’s ecosystem also supports species like dholes, Nilgiri langurs, and lion-tailed macaques, reflecting rich biodiversity.
Survey Methodology and Historical Context
The 2025 census used standardised techniques like ‘Bounded Count’ and ‘Double Observer’ methods to improve data reliability. Historically, Nilgiri tahrs ranged widely across the Western Ghats. However, habitat loss due to plantations, infrastructure, and land-use changes fragmented populations. The survey aimed to identify fragmented groups and assess possibilities for habitat connectivity restoration to support population recovery.
Future Directions
The growing tahr numbers underline the need for coordinated management between Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Joint strategies can ensure habitat preservation, control of invasive species, and effective anti-poaching measures. Maintaining grassland health and predator-prey balance will be crucial for sustaining populations. Continued monitoring and adaptive management will support long-term conservation goals.
| Related | |
|---|---|
