The Philippines is not only paradise beaches and picturesque landscapes, but also home to unique fauna. One of the most amazing and mysterious inhabitants of the archipelago is the Philippine tarsier (Tarsius syrichta), a tiny primate that has become a symbol of the island of Bohol. To protect these rare animals and introduce tourists to their unique world, a tarsier sanctuary, Tarsier Sanctuary, was established in the Philippines. This place has become an important center for biodiversity conservation and a popular tourist attraction.
Who are tarsiers?
The Philippine tarsier is one of the smallest primates in the world. Its size does not exceed 10-15 centimeters in length and its weight is only about 120-150 grams. However, the main feature of the tarsier is its huge eyes, which can reach 16 mm in diameter. These eyes help the animal to see in the dark, as tarsiers lead a nocturnal lifestyle. They also have very long hind legs that allow them to jump up to 3 meters.
Longbeaks are predators that feed on insects, spiders and small vertebrates. They have the unique ability to turn their heads 180 degrees, which helps them track their prey. Despite their tiny size, tarsiers play an important role in the ecosystem by controlling insect populations.
Tarsier Sanctuary: History and Mission
The Tarsier Sanctuary was established in 1997 on the island of Bohol to protect these rare animals and their natural habitat. Prior to the establishment of the sanctuary, tarsiers were endangered due to deforestation, illegal hunting and uncontrolled tourism. Many animals died in captivity as they were tried to be kept as exotic pets.
The reserve covers an area of about 8 hectares and is a dense forest where tarsiers can live in conditions as close to natural as possible. The main mission of the reserve is to preserve the population of tarsiers, conduct scientific research and educate the public about the importance of protecting these unique animals.
Visit the Reserve
The Tongpipes Reserve is open to visitors to experience these amazing animals in their natural habitat. Tourists can walk along special trails through the forest and observe the tarsiers hiding in the branches of trees. The guides of the reserve tell about the life of tarsiers, their habits and the threats they face.
It is important to note that the reserve strictly observes the rules aimed at the protection of animals. Tourists are forbidden to touch the tarsiers, use flash when taking photos and make noise so as not to disturb their peace. These measures help minimize stress for the animals and preserve their natural behavior.
Threats and Conservation
Despite efforts to protect tarsiers, they continue to face serious threats. The main problem is the destruction of their natural habitat due to deforestation and agricultural expansion. In addition, tarsiers are often victims of the illegal wildlife trade.
The tarsiers reserve plays a key role in combating these threats. It hosts reforestation programs as well as educational activities for locals and tourists. Scientists at the reserve study tarsiers' behavior, diet, and reproduction to develop effective conservation strategies.
Tourism and Ecological Significance
The tarsier reserve has become an important ecotourism center in the Philippines. Thousands of tourists visit it every year, boosting the local economy and creating jobs for Bohol islanders. However, the main value of the reserve lies in its contribution to biodiversity conservation.
Longspurs are an indicator of ecosystem health. Their presence indicates the well-being of the forest, while their disappearance can upset the ecological balance. Protecting the tarsiers is not only about caring for a specific species, but also about preserving the entire ecosystem of Bohol Island.
How do I visit the reserve?
The tarsiers reserve is located in Corella, about 14 kilometers from Tagbilaran, the capital of Bohol Island. You can reach the reserve by rented transportation or as part of a tour group. The reserve is open to the public daily and the entrance fee includes a guide.
After visiting the reserve, tourists can go to other attractions on the island, such as the Chocolate Hills or the Loboc River, where they can take a boat ride and enjoy the picturesque scenery.
Conclusion
The Tarsiers Reserve in the Philippines is a unique place where nature and man coexist in harmony. Here you can not only see some of the smallest and most mysterious primates in the world, but also learn about the importance of biodiversity conservation. A visit to the reserve is an opportunity to touch the miracle of nature, understand its fragility and be inspired to protect it.