Date Published: April 2011
Assessment Summary
The Himalayan tahr (Hemitragus jemlahicus) is a native of the Himalayan ranges in Nepal, India and China. It has established feral populations in New Zealand, South Africa and Argentina. In those areas where it has established, feral populations have caused extensive damage to native vegetation in alpine areas. It also competes with domestic stock for grazing.
The species predominantly inhabits steep rocky and vegetated mountain sides and sub-alpine forests, and may be found at altitudes of 1000 m to 5,200 m. It is considered highly likely that the species could establish in Tasmania.
Himalayan tahr is listed as 'near threatened' by the IUCN. The species is believed to be in significant decline in its natural range due to hunting for food and habitat loss, making the species close to qualifying for 'vulnerable'.
In Tasmania, the Himalayan tahr is a 'controlled animal' under the Nature Conservation Act 2002.
The Vertebrate Pest Committee has assessed the Himalayan tahr as a 'serious threat' species and considers that the keeping of a Himalayan tahr should be limited to statutory zoos or endorsed special collections.
This risk assessment concludes that the Himalayan tahr is an extreme threat to Tasmania and recommends that imports be prohibited.
Assessment Documentation
Himalayan tahr Risk Assessment (2Mb)