The second annual synchronised estimation of Nilgiri tahr in Tamil Nadu and Kerala that begins on Thursday, April 24, will cover 36 new blocks in addition to the 140 blocks surveyed last year.

Last year's survey estimated Tamil Nadu's tahr population at 1,031, with 552 in fragmented habitats and 479 in contiguous landscapes. Combined with Kerala's 827 tahrs, the total was 1,858.

The Forest Department on Monday launched the first synchronised estimation of the Nilgiri Tahr, the State animal of Tamil Nadu. The synchronised survey will also cover the Eravikulam and the ...