Watch: Rare Sight Of An Endangered Nilgiri Marten Crossing Road Fascinates Internet

IAS officer Supriya Sahu keeps the online users engaged by sharing intriguing facts about wildlife conservation. Recently, the officer posted an interesting clip about the Nilgiri Marten, a rare animal native to the Western Ghats. This small furry mammal is distinguished by its chocolate-coloured fur and striking canary yellow throat. The rare sight of this endangered animal fascinated the online users.

The Nilgiri Marten, once a common sight in the lush forests and grasslands of the Western Ghats, spanning across the southern states of Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu is on the verge of extinction, leading to its classification as ‘Vulnerable’ on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. The reasons behind its declining numbers are many. Habitat loss and fragmentation have extensively impacted its population, as per the experts.

In a bid to recognise the urgent need for conservation, the Tamil Nadu government has launched the “TN Endangered Species Conservation Fund.”

Check The Post Here:

“Most people have not even heard about Nilgiri Marten, a beautiful small mustelid with a chocolate coloured fur and a canary yellow throat. Once this beautiful animal could be easily sighted but now is on the IUCN Red list. Nilgiri Marten is endemic to Western Ghats. TN Govt has planned conservation of lesser known species like Nilgiri Marten through the newly announced initiative “TN Endangered Species Conservation Fund’. video- APW, Thiru Senthil, Chinnamanur Range, Megamalai Division,” reads the caption.

As soon as the clip and photos were shared, users were quick to share their views. “It’s unfortunate that the Nilgiri Marten is facing endangerment, but it’s heartening to see initiatives like the TN Endangered Species Conservation Fund aimed at protecting lesser-known species like the Nilgiri Marten. Awareness and conservation efforts are crucial for preserving biodiversity,” wrote a user.

Another commented, “Wonderful ma’am, even forest officials can film a video documentary to showcase this kind of rare species. It will be more useful for our people and students to know about animals.”

Echoing a similar sentiment, an account remarked, “The Nilgiri Marten is a true gem of our biodiversity. It’s heartwarming to see efforts being made to protect such lesser-known species. Let’s all do our part to ensure their survival.”