Nilgiri Tahr ( UPSC Prelims)

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News Context

The traditional habitats of the Nilgiri tahr in the Coimbatore Forest Division are showing signs of a population revival. These animals are found in open montane grassland habitats and are endemic to the Western Ghats. The Eravikulam National Park in Kerala hosts the largest contiguous population of this species. The Nilgiri tahr is listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act (WPA), 1972, and is classified as Endangered (EN). It is also included in the Species Recovery Programme.
 Characteristics of the Nilgiri tahr include being the only mountain ungulate in southern India and being locally referred to as "Varaiaadu." Historical texts like Silappathikaram and Sivakasindamani mention its descriptions.
 Conservation efforts include the Project Nilgiri Tahr in Tamil Nadu, where it is recognized as the state animal. Additionally, Nilgiri Tahr Day is celebrated on October 07.