From zero to 26, estimation shows signs of Nilgiri Tahrs’ revival in Coimbatore forest division

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Nilgiri Tahr habitat Chinnattumalai in Madukkarai range in the Coimbatore forest division. | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

The results of the third synchronised population estimation of Nilgiri Tahr indicate signs of revival of the State animal in the fragmented habitats of the Coimbatore forest division.

As per the survey, which was held from April 24 to 27, Nilgiri Tahr population in the division was estimated to be 26 — with a lower limit 20 and upper limit 51. The estimated population was zero in 2024 and nine in 2025.

Out of the seven forest ranges in Coimbatore division, Nilgiri Tahrs inhabit select higher-altitude landscapes in the Madukkarai and Boluvampatti ranges. Their habitats are spread across Chinnaattumalai and Periyaattumalai in the Madukkarai range, and Kunjiranmudi, Kurudimalai and Vellingirimalai in the Boluvampatti range.

Sources involved in the survey said that there was no direct sighting of Nilgiri Tahrs when field staff surveyed habitats in Madukkarai range from April 24 to 27, said to be due to a forest fire on the contiguous Kerala side. The population, which roams through the Kerala and Tamil Nadu side, had reportedly moved to the lower elevations on the Kerala side due to the fire. Another round of survey was conducted for the blocks after the forest fire was contained and the staff had direct sighting of Nilgiri Tahrs from a distance through binoculars, said sources.

As per the survey report, the estimated increase in the population from zero to 26 from 2024 to 2026 indicates either improved population estimation efforts or recolonisation of suitable habitats.

It stated that the estimated population in the fragmented habitats such as Coimbatore, Kodikanal, Theni, Ambasamudram, Kanniyakumari divisions and isolated population in other Nilgiri Tahr holding divisions, with less than 30 individuals requiring immediate habitat intervention. The report suggested that reduction in anthropogenic pressure, habitat enrichment, establishment of corridor