This dataset represents the terrestrial distribution of Himalayan Thar (Hemitragus jemlahicus) in New Zealand (mainland New Zealand and Chatham Islands) as at 1 July 2014. It represents this species' final layer as part of the Natural Heritage Management Strategy of the Department of Conservation. Spatial and textual data were collected at the Area level by Department of Conservation Area Office and Conservancy Office staff. Polygons representing the distribution were hand-drawn onto LINZ 260 series topo maps at the 1:250,000 scale. Digitisation of the hand-drawn maps was contracted to Geographx (NZ) Limited. Freshwater lakes, ponds and rivers were clipped from the layer to represent species absence. Further digitisation work was carried out by the DOC R GIS team in Christchurch to re-define selected polygons by species specific distribution drivers; i.e. altitude and habitat guided by LCBD 2. The attribute table may contain references to quantitative datasets of species abundance (where such datasets exist). For full explanation of data collection methodology see DOCDM-186114.

This dataset is updated from the 2007 dataset. The majority of data from 2007 has not been superceded, however updates have occurred in 3 previously classed Absence polygons via the locations of tahr kills recorded as part of DOC data collection of Operational Activities within the 5 years to June 30th 2014. Updates have also occurred within two previously classed Presence areas where a few illegally released animals were eradicated (namely, Paparoa Ranges, and around St James).