Przewalski’s horses, the only wild horse species, faced extinction in the wild but have been successfully reintroduced in Mongolia through captive breeding programs. Similarly, the Arabian oryx has followed a comparable recovery path. In a recent survey near the Tamil Nadu-Kerala border, advanced techniques were employed to assess wildlife populations, including threat assessments and faecal sampling, with support from various wildlife organizations.

A notable finding from the survey was the first direct sightings of tahrs in decades, along with the collection of fresh tahr pellets for genetic analysis. The Varaiyattu Mottai habitat, characterized by its diverse vegetation and rugged terrain, is deemed suitable for the tahr population. This data is crucial for understanding the health and genetic diversity of the species.

Launched by Chief Minister MK Stalin in October 2023, Project Nilgiri Tahr aims to address population declines through comprehensive surveys, habitat restoration, and control of invasive species. Last year’s survey estimated Tamil Nadu’s tahr population at 1,031, with an additional 827 in Kerala, highlighting the importance of ongoing conservation efforts for the species’ survival.