A guide to the Endangered species of Tamil Nadu

Our country has vast landscape rich in flora and fauna. Due to urbanization most of the forests are encroached leaving many plant and animal species endangered. South India has several rare plant and animal species which are in the verge of extinction. The onus lies on every citizen of India to help conserve our environment and forests for a better future.
Endangered Species of Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu is one of the few states in India which is a home to a large variety of rare plants and animals. Endangered species of Tamil Nadu include both plant and animal species which are in danger of extinction. A few of the rare plant and animal species are listed below:
Plant Species
Sandal Wood
Sandal wood is a very valuable tree known for its aroma. This tree is mostly found in the Nilgiri forests of Tamil Nadu. The oil from this tree has many medicinal properties. Since this tree is very rare and precious it is endangered due to smuggling, illegal felling of trees and encroachment of forest land. Many measures have been taken by the forest department to preserve and protect this rare plant species.
Cinchona Tree
 The Cinchona tree is known for its medicinal properties. The tree is very valuable and has a good commercial value which makes it another endangered species of Tamil Nadu.
Animal Species
Nilgiri Tahr
Nilgiri Tahr is a rare and endangered animal species found in the Nilgiri hills and the neighbouring states of Karnataka and Kerala.  These are hefty goats with short horns. They differ from the Tahr found in the Himalayas. The Nilgiri Tahr is on the verge of extinction listed by the Wildlife protection Act in 1972. Strict Conservation measures have been taken to control poaching, assessing its habitat and ensuring more land areas for its protection.
Lion Tailed Macaque
Lion Tailed Macaque is a monkey which gets its name from its tail and looks that appear like a lion .This is mostly found in the Tamil Nadu and its neighbouring states. Deforestation and conversion of forests to farmland are the main reasons for the extinction of this rare animal species. Measures need to be taken to preserve the natural habitat and encourage afforestation.