Wildlife in Valparai

Wildlife in Valparai

Valparai is a haven for flora and fauna. It has a rich biodiversity with some being highly endangered. The Lion Tailed Macaque is a threatened species that is an upper canopy dwelling animal but with the change in lifestyle today it is found near human habitats. As I walked out the Puduthottam Estate I saw numerous LTM on rooftops, walking on the road on trying to get into a house through a window.

Lion Tailed Macaque

NCF a NGO in Valparai is working towards ensuring this change in lifestyle is curbed. Also they are working towards reducing human elephants conflict. Sensors that send out SMS when a tusker is found in close vicinity, generating awareness amongst the locals are few of the initiatives by this firm.

Nilgiri Langur is another endemic monkey found in the forests of Valparai. I could spot one in the Monica Tea Bungalow. As we drove towards the Chinnakallar Falls out of the blue appeared a barking deer and crossed the road before I could capture it in my camera.

Nilgiri Langur

Puduthottam Estate is where I spotted the Malabar Giant Squirrel.

Malabar Giant Squirrel

On my way to Valparai in the ninth hair pin bend I spotted a herd of the Nilgiri Ibex or the Nilgiri Tahr which is a mountain goat. In case you are lucky to get forest department’s permission and get entry to Grass Hills you might sight these animals that notice they are comparatively bigger in size.

Nilgiri Tahr or Ibex

Hornbills, Whistling Thrush are some of the few birds that are spotted on the Nilgiri Hills. If you fancy wildlife and are keen on sighting them Valparai is the place you ought to be. Who knows if you are lucky you might spot the striped creature as well?