Tarsiers are small primates known for their distinctive features. These nocturnal creatures possess unusually large eyes, each of which can be larger than their entire brain, allowing them exceptional vision in low light. Their small bodies, often no bigger than a human hand, also feature long hind limbs, enabling them to be powerful leapers. As members of the primate order, tarsiers occupy a unique evolutionary position, exhibiting traits that bridge the gap between lemurs and monkeys.
Geographic Home
Tarsiers are exclusively found in Maritime Southeast Asia, inhabiting various islands across the nations of Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. In the Philippines, distinct populations of tarsiers are established on southern islands such as Bohol, Samar, Leyte, and Mindanao. Their range also extends to smaller, isolated islands, including Dinagat, Siargao, Maripipi, and Basilan.
Within Indonesia, tarsiers are widely distributed across islands like Sulawesi (also known as Celebes), Sumatra, Bangka, Belitung, and Karimata. Specific species are endemic to smaller Indonesian islands, such as the Siau Island tarsier, the Peleng tarsier, and the Sangihe tarsier. On the island of Borneo, tarsiers are present in areas belonging to both Malaysia and Indonesia.
Preferred Habitats
Tarsiers are arboreal animals, well-adapted for a life among the branches. They inhabit dense primary and secondary rainforests, primarily in lowland areas, though some species also live in lower montane forests. Their preferred environments include thick vegetation, with an abundance of tall grasses, bushes, and bamboo shoots.
These primates utilize their elongated limbs, particularly their hind legs, and specialized padded digits for vertical clinging and leaping. This unique locomotion allows them to navigate their forest homes by propelling themselves between tree trunks and branches. While they primarily occupy forested areas, some tarsier species can also be found in more varied habitats, including mangroves, coastal scrub, and even certain cultivated areas or gardens near human settlements. During the day, they rest in sheltered spots like hollow trees, dense vine clusters, or within the crowns of coconut palms, usually at low to medium heights above the ground.
Conservation and Future
Many tarsier species face threats to their survival, with several classified as endangered or vulnerable by conservation organizations. For instance, the Siau Island tarsier is critically endangered. The Philippine tarsier, while currently listed as near threatened, has experienced past classifications as endangered due to declining numbers.
The primary threats to tarsiers stem from habitat loss and fragmentation, driven by deforestation for agriculture, illegal logging, and expanding human settlements. Forest fires also contribute to habitat destruction. Another concern is the illegal pet trade, where tarsiers are captured for their appeal as exotic pets, despite their low survival rates in captivity due to specialized dietary and environmental needs. Additionally, hunting for food or as perceived pests, along with stress from uncontrolled tourism, also impacts their populations. Conservation efforts, such as the establishment of protected areas and sanctuaries like the Philippine Tarsier Foundation in Bohol, are underway to safeguard these unique primates and their remaining habitats.