Nilgiri tahr - வரையாடு

The Nilgiri Tahr (Nilgiritragus hylocrius), or Varai Aadu, is an endangered mountain ungulate endemic to the Western Ghats and the State Animal of Tamil Nadu. It lives in high-altitude grasslands and sholas (1,200–2,600 m) and is known for climbing steep rocky cliffs. Protected as Endangered (IUCN) and under Schedule I, it also holds strong cultural importance in Sangam literature. The 2023 census recorded 2,668 individuals, with 1,303 in Tamil Nadu across the Nilgiri, Anamalai–Palani, KMTR and Srivilliputtur–Meghamalai ranges. Tamil Nadu launched Project Nilgiri Tahr (2022) for habitat restoration and conservation. Nilgiri Tahr Day is observed on October 7 in honour of Dr. E.R.C. Davidar.

Emerald dove - மரகதப்புறா

The Emerald Dove (Chalcophaps indica), or Maragatha Pura, is the State Bird of Tamil Nadu. It is a small, ground-dwelling pigeon with shining emerald-green wings and a soft cooing call. Found in moist forests, mangroves, foothills, and plantations, it is common in the Western Ghats and reserve forests of Tamil Nadu. It usually forages alone or in pairs, feeding on fallen fruits and seeds. Listed as Least Concern (IUCN), it remains stable globally but faces local declines due to forest loss and disturbance.

Tamil yeoman - தமிழ் மறவன்

The Tamil Yeoman (Cirrochroa thais), or Tamil Maravan, is the State Butterfly of Tamil Nadu. A tawny-orange butterfly, it is found mainly in the Western Ghats, especially in moist evergreen forests, forest edges, and streamside habitats.Declared the State Butterfly in June 2019, it was chosen for its Tamil cultural identity and regional presence. It symbolizes Tamil Nadu’s butterfly heritage and promotes habitat protection and awareness of Western Ghats ecosystems.

Gloriosa lily - செங்காந்தள் மலர்

The Gloriosa Lily (Gloriosa superba), called Kaanthal / Karthigai Poo, is the State Flower of Tamil Nadu. Known for its flame-like red and yellow petals, it grows in forests, rocky slopes and well-drained hill areas, flowering mainly in the monsoon. All parts of the plant are toxic, though it has cultural and medicinal importance. Habitat loss and wild collection affect its populations, making habitat protection and sustainable cultivation essential.

Jackfruit - பலாப்பழம்

The Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus), or Palaapazham, is the State Fruit of Tamil Nadu and the world’s largest tree-borne fruit, reaching up to 55 kg. Highly productive, each tree can yield 200–500 fruits a year. It is culturally important in Tamil Nadu, used in both ripe and unripe dishes, and its wood is valued for instruments and furniture. Nutritious and widely grown in home gardens and farms, jackfruit supports biodiversity and suits climate-resilient farming. Conserving traditional varieties and promoting value-added use are key to sustainability.

Palm tree - பனை மரம்

The Palmyra Palm (Borassus flabellifer), or Panai Maram, is the State Tree of Tamil Nadu and a defining symbol of the state's cultural and ecological identity.
Its tall trunk (up to 30 m) and fan-shaped leaves help it thrive even in arid, harsh environments. For centuries, it has supported rural life with its sweet fruit, nutritious sap, durable timber, and strong leaves used for thatching, weaving, and traditional manuscripts.
Widely celebrated in Tamil literature, folklore, and daily life, the Palmyra Palm remains one of the most economically and culturally important trees in Tamil Nadu.