Blackbuck seen in three new places in Kanchi division

Chennai: An increase in blackbuck population in Kancheepuram forest division has excited officials. Participants in a one-day census on Sunday recorded seeing 45 animals, including fawns, of the endangered antelope species in three new places.
The free ranging animals, aged between six months and one year, were found in Nemmeli, Paalur and Mambakkam of Chengalpet Range, district forest officer Ritto Cyriac told TOI.
While a general census is taken up annually, this is the first time an exclusive blackbuck census has been taken up focusing on Chengalpet and Tiruporur ranges spread over 6,500 hectares, he said.
While 20 groups of blackbuck were spotted in the 3,000 hectare Chengalpet range that comprises Thirukazhukkundram, Paalur, Nemmeli and Vallam, 25 groups were seen in the 3,500 hectare Tiruporur range comprising Kattur, Illalur, Madayathur, Thaiyur and Kolathur. About 150 animals are estimated to be living in the two ranges, he said.
The fact that the animals were sighted in Nemmeli which didn't have a presence of the animals earlier is encouraging, the official said.
The increase in the blackbuck population is no mere coincidence. Borewells were sunk in some dry patches, water troughs created and regularly filled to help animals in summer, he said.
Poachers and speeding vehicles still posed threats, another official said. While there was no problem from people in the area, last year a group from outside came to poach deer and black-naped hare. The weapons were seized and the group members released only after they paid a heavy fine, he said.
Vehicles zipping through continue to be a problem. "At least one case is reported once in three months. Last month, a blackbuck found injured on the road was taken to Vandalur zoo and treated," Cyriac added.