HIMALAYAN TAHR

Hemitragus jemlahicus

The first liberation of Himalayan Tahr took place when five animals were released near Mount Cook.  This was followed by another liberation of eight animals in 1910.  Since their liberation some ninety + years ago, the Tahr have established themselves between the Rakaia River in the North and the Haast Pass Highway in the South.  The prime time for hunting Tahr is between May and July which coincides with their rutting period.  This is the only substantial wild herd of Tahr known outside the species’ native Asian range. The tragedy locally is their merciless persecution by DOC, the last several years in particular, despite current vegetation being at vigorous growth levels even in the original Mt. Cook release area.

Photo caption: Brent Crowe