Page updated: 08/14/2008

The Bohol Tarsier

Short Description

The Philippines Tarsier is one of the smallest primates in the world and is considered to be the mammal with the biggest eyes. Their diet consists of insects in the main. Their height is between 90 to 160 mm (3.5 to 6.25 inches). Their weight is between 70 to 165 grams (3-6 ozs). The big eyes give them very acute night vision and make them good night hunters. The big ears can move in the direction of any noise and the heads can swivel through 180 degrees.

To be sure to see a Tarsier, you should go to the Tarsier Foundation in Corella. (See address below).

Time and Distance

There are two ways to encounter Bohol Tarsiers.

1) The short track is to take a jeepney from Tagbilaran to Corella. If you are lucky, there is a tricycle in Corella that brings you out to the Tarsier Foundataion. Otherwise you have to walk for some 30 minutes.

2) More interesting is the 15km hike on the Tarsier Trail. This walkway in gently rolling hills links the towns of Corella, Sikatuna and Loboc, north of Tagbilaran. The trail sometimes gets lost in the bush. We therefore recommend to hire a guide from the Tagbilaran Tourist Office.

Equipment

Good shoes, hat, insect repellent

What to see

At Corella you first get in a mixed forest. Partly it is cultivated (bananas an coconut palm trees), partly it is a half wild forest. The more you get inside, the more the forest becomes a secondary rain forest. Take the time to look out for plants and animals.

What to do

Usually tourist stay on the beaches. So take the chance to see a tropical forest with its sounds and smells.

Costs

Transportation:
- Rent a motorbike at your resort PHP 400 a day
- Rent a motorela (tricycle) PHP 800 a day
- Rent a multicab PHP 1000 to 2000, half day/day)

Entrance and others:
Entrance fee is PHP 50. A donnation is welcome.