Tamil NaduFriday, 5 June 2026·The Hindu - Tamil Nadu
Nilgiri Tahr population rises to 1,364 in Tamil Nadu third synchronised survey
Tamil Nadu’s third synchronised survey estimated 1,364 Nilgiri Tahrs, up from 1,303 in 2025, with major populations in Grass Hills and Mukurthi National Park.
Key highlights
Direct fact
In 2026, the third synchronised population survey of the Nilgiri Tahr in Tamil Nadu estimated 1,364 animals, and the findings were released by Ministers R.V. Ranjith Kumar and V.K. Rajeev after field work conducted from April 24 to 27 across 177 survey blocks.
Key specifics
- Estimated Nilgiri Tahr population in 2026: 1,364.
- 2025 estimate: 1,303; first synchronised survey in 2024: 1,031.
- Survey covered 177 blocks, 14 forest divisions, 43 forest ranges and 124 forest beats.
- Field teams included 858 personnel and trekked 3,219 km.
- Largest habitats recorded: 360 in Grass Hills National Park and 313 in Mukurthi National Park.
Exam lens
Question type: Tamil Nadu wildlife survey facts, population trend, habitat mapping and conservation initiative; TNPSC may ask the State animal, survey dates, and the two major national parks where most Nilgiri Tahrs were found.