
Tour in Bohol's Tarsier Conservation Area
Where Tarsiers Reign Supreme and Adventure Awaits!
The Great Escape
Welcome, fellow adventurers, to a tale of tiny titans and forest frolics in Bohol’s Tarsier Conservation Area! Buckle up (or not, it’s a blog post, after all) for a journey filled with laughter, wonder, and maybe just a touch of tarsiering around.
Our day began with the grand escape from the hustle and bustle of Panglao’s Alona Beach, armed with a healthy dose of adventurous spirit. Destination? The Tarsier Conservation Area, where the tiniest primates on the planet rule the roost (or, well, the trees).

Philippines Tarsier
Exploring the Ghostly Creatures of Bohol's Tarsier Conservation Area
The Philippine island of Bohol is renowned for its stunning landscapes, pristine beaches, and rich biodiversity. Among its many natural wonders, the Bohol Tarsier Conservation Area stands out as a sanctuary for one of the world’s smallest primates, the Philippine tarsier (Carlito syrichta). However, beyond the adorable façade of these tiny primates lies a realm of folklore and mystery, where tales of ghostly creatures have intrigued visitors for generations.
The Enigmatic Tarsiers
Tarsiers are remarkable creatures, known for their distinctive large eyes, elongated fingers, and unique ability to rotate their heads almost 180 degrees. Found only in Southeast Asia, these nocturnal hunters inhabit dense forests, where they leap from tree to tree in search of insects. Despite their small size, tarsiers play a significant role in the ecosystem, acting as indicators of forest health.
Guardians of the Forest
The Bohol Tarsier Conservation Area was established to protect these endangered primates and their natural habitat. Spanning over 7.4 hectares of secondary forest, the sanctuary provides a safe haven for tarsiers to thrive. Visitors to the conservation area can observe these elusive creatures in their natural environment, guided by knowledgeable staff who share insights into their behavior and biology.
Whispers of the Past
However, the allure of the Bohol Tarsier Conservation Area extends beyond its ecological significance. Local folklore is rife with stories of supernatural beings that roam the forests, including the enigmatic kapre and aswang. These mythical creatures, said to be spirits or shape-shifters, have long captured the imagination of Filipinos and visitors alike. Some believe that the eerie calls of tarsiers echoing through the forest are a sign of their connection to the spirit world.
Embracing the Mystery
As visitors venture into the depths of the conservation area, they may find themselves enveloped in a sense of wonder and mystery. The dense foliage, dappled sunlight, and haunting calls of tarsiers create an otherworldly atmosphere that is both enchanting and unsettling. It is in these moments of quiet contemplation that one can appreciate the deep connection between nature and folklore, where reality and imagination intertwine.
Preserving Heritage
The Bohol Tarsier Conservation Area serves as a testament to the importance of preserving both natural and cultural heritage. By safeguarding the habitat of the Philippine tarsier, we not only protect a vulnerable species but also uphold traditions and stories that have been passed down through generations. Through education and conservation efforts, we can ensure that future generations will continue to marvel at the wonders of Bohol’s forests and the tales of its ghostly inhabitants.
Meet the Tarsiers: Bohol's Miniature Superstars
As we entered the sanctuary, we were greeted by the guardians of the forest: the Philippine tarsiers. These pint-sized primates are the real MVPs of the jungle, with their giant eyes and knack for looking perpetually surprised. We couldn’t help but wonder if they were just as amused by us humans stumbling around with our cameras and selfie sticks.
Tarsier See, Tarsier Do
Close Encounters of the Cute Kind of course, no trip to the Tarsier Conservation Area would be complete without getting up close and personal with the stars of the show. As we spotted tarsiers lounging in under the leaves we couldn’t help but admire their chill vibe and impeccable fashion sense (who knew fur could be so stylish?).
Here are ten (fun) facts about Philippine tarsiers:
Miniature Marvels: Philippine tarsiers are among the smallest primates in the world, with adults typically weighing around 80 to 160 grams (2.8 to 5.6 ounces).
”Have you heard about tarsiers? Those little guys are like the ninjas of the animal kingdom. I mean, have you seen how they leap from tree to tree? It’s like they’re auditioning for ’Tarsier Parkour: Forest Edition!”
Big Eyes, Big Dreams: Despite their small size, tarsiers have disproportionately large eyes, each about the same size as their brains. These giant peepers help them see clearly in the dark forests where they live.
“You ever notice how tarsiers and humans are like the original odd couple when it comes to eyes? Tarsiers have these massive peepers that are like high-definition cameras, while us humans are over here squinting at our smartphones, trying to read tiny text. It’s like they’ve got the deluxe edition while we’re stuck with the basic model!”
Nimble Navigators: Tarsiers are agile jumpers and can leap distances of up to 5 meters (16 feet) between branches, using their long tails for balance.
“So, have you ever seen a tarsier and a human have a jumping competition? It’s like watching an episode of ”America’s Got Talent” with two very different acts. The tarsier jumps from tree to tree with the grace of a ninja, while the human… well, let’s just say we’re still perfecting our landings in the leaf pile.”
Night Owls: These tiny primates are nocturnal creatures, meaning they are most active at night. They spend their days sleeping in tree hollows or clinging to branches, often with their legs wrapped around their bodies for warmth.
”I was watching a documentary about tarsiers, and they were talking about how these little guys are expert hunters. Meanwhile, I can barely catch a fly with a fly swatter. It’s like they’re living out the ’predator vs. prey’ dynamic, and I’m just trying to order takeout without spilling sauce on my shirt.”
Silent Hunters: Tarsiers have excellent hearing and can detect the faintest sounds of insects moving through the forest. They use their sharp teeth and strong jaws to catch prey, including insects, small birds, and lizards.
”Tarsiers and humans may differ in size, but we share a common enemy: mosquitoes. I like to think of tarsiers as the ultimate mosquito hunters. They’re like the tiny, furry superheroes we never knew we needed!”
Solo Artists: Tarsiers are solitary animals and prefer to live alone or in small family groups. They communicate with each other using a range of vocalizations, including soft chirps, clicks, and whistles.
”You ever look at a tarsier and think, ’Hey, that little guy gets me’? I mean, we both have those days where we just want to curl up in a tree and avoid social interaction. Tarsiers are like the spirit animals of introverts everywhere!”
Baby Boomers: Female tarsiers have a relatively long gestation period of about six months, after which they give birth to a single offspring. Baby tarsiers are born with fully formed eyes and are capable of climbing and leaping within days of birth.
“You know, tarsiers and human babies have something in common: they’re both experts at keeping us up at night. But here’s the difference: when a tarsier baby keeps you awake, it’s because they’re swinging from branch to branch like a tiny Tarzan. When a human baby does it, it’s because they’ve suddenly discovered their vocal cords and want the whole neighborhood to know about it!”
Territorial Titans: Tarsiers are fiercely territorial and mark their territories with scent glands located on their chests. They use scent marking to communicate with other tarsiers and deter intruders from entering their territory.
”You know you’re dealing with a serious introvert when even the tarsiers are like, ’Hey buddy, could you tone it down a bit?’ I mean, these guys practically invented social distancing. They’re the OGs of ’me time’.”
Super Senses: In addition to their large eyes and acute hearing, tarsiers have a specialized neck structure that allows them to rotate their heads almost 180 degrees in each direction, giving them a wide field of vision.
”You ever notice how tarsiers always look like they’re deep in thought? They’re probably contemplating the mysteries of life, while I’m over here debating whether to get pizza or tacos for dinner. Hey, we all have our existential crises, right?”
Conservation Concerns: Despite their fascinating adaptations, Philippine tarsiers are considered an endangered species due to habitat loss, deforestation, and illegal pet trade. Conservation efforts, such as the establishment of protected areas like the Tarsier Conservation Area in Bohol, are crucial for their survival.
“You ever stop to think about how tarsiers and humans are surprisingly alike? I mean, sure, they’ve got those giant eyes and we’ve got… well, slightly less giant eyes. But deep down, we both share a love for lounging around, soaking up the sun, and maybe indulging in a little afternoon nap. It’s like we’re distant cousins in the family tree of chill!”
Farewell to the eyes and tails
As the sun began to set on our adventure, we bid adieu to our newfound furry friends and reluctantly made our way back to civilization. Though our tour in the Tarsier Conservation Area may have come to an end, the memories we made and the laughter we shared will live on forever in our hearts (and our YouTube channel). So, here’s to Bohol’s tiny titans and the wild adventures that await in the great outdoors! Until next time, keep exploring.
Guidelines for Visiting Bohol's Tarsier Conservation Area


Guidelines
Visiting the Tarsier Conservation Area in Bohol is an opportunity to experience the wonders of nature and observe the fascinating Philippine tarsiers in their natural habitat. To ensure a memorable and respectful visit for both visitors and the wildlife, here are some guidelines to keep in mind:
- Respect Wildlife: The tarsiers are delicate creatures, easily stressed by loud noises and sudden movements. Maintain a respectful distance and avoid touching or feeding them. Refrain from using flash photography, as it can disturb the tarsiers and disrupt their natural behavior.
- Follow the Designated Paths: Stay on the designated trails and follow the guidance of park staff. Venturing off-trail can damage sensitive vegetation and disturb wildlife habitats. Respect any signage indicating restricted areas or prohibited activities.
- Keep Noise to a Minimum: Tarsiers are nocturnal animals with sensitive hearing. Keep conversations quiet and minimize noise disturbances to allow the tarsiers to rest undisturbed during the day. Avoid shouting, yelling, or playing loud music within the conservation area.
- Dispose of Trash Properly: Help maintain the cleanliness of the conservation area by disposing of trash in designated bins. Avoid littering, as it can harm wildlife and degrade the natural environment. Consider bringing reusable water bottles and containers to minimize waste.
- Respect Local Customs and Culture: Bohol is home to diverse communities with unique traditions and customs. Be mindful of local customs and cultural sensitivities during your visit. Dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting religious sites or interacting with local residents.
- Stay Hydrated and Sun-Safe: Bohol’s tropical climate can be hot and humid, especially during the daytime. Stay hydrated by bringing an adequate supply of water and wearing sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun’s rays.
- Support Conservation Efforts: Consider making a donation or purchasing souvenirs from the Tarsier Conservation Area to support ongoing conservation efforts and community initiatives. Your contribution helps protect the tarsiers and preserve their natural habitat for future generations to enjoy.
By following these guidelines, you can enjoy a memorable and responsible visit to Bohol’s Tarsier Conservation Area while respecting the delicate balance of nature and wildlife conservation. Enjoy your time exploring the beauty of this unique sanctuary!