The Philippine Tarsier (Carlito syrichta) is one of the smallest primates on Earth and the iconic living mascot of Bohol. Measuring only 8.5 to 16 centimeters (3.3 to 6.3 inches) in height and weighing a mere 80 to 160 grams, these nocturnal insectivores are celebrated for their enormous saucer-like eyes, 180-degree neck rotation, and long leaping hind limbs.
Sanctuary Quick Reference
- Recommended Ethical Sanctuary: Philippine Tarsier and Wildlife Sanctuary, Corella, Bohol (Run by the Philippine Tarsier Foundation).
- Alternative Viewing Center: Tarsier Conservation Area, Loboc, Bohol (Along the main countryside tourist route).
- Corella Entrance Fee: ₱150.00 per person (Includes trained wildlife guide and conservation contribution).
- Operating Hours: 09:00 AM – 04:00 PM daily.
Corella vs. Loboc: Which Sanctuary to Visit?
Understanding the difference between the two main tarsier centers in Bohol ensures an ethical, sustainable encounter:
1. Philippine Tarsier Foundation Sanctuary (Corella) – Highly Recommended
The Corella sanctuary is an authentic, non-profit 8.4-hectare conservation forest and research facility. Tarsiers live freely in a large, semi-wild forested enclosure. Visitors are led along a quiet dirt footpath in small groups by certified local spotters who locate the sleeping tarsiers perched under large leaves without disturbing them.
2. Tarsier Conservation Area (Loboc)
Conveniently located along the highway between Bilar and Loboc, making it a popular standard stop on group package tours. While accessible, it can experience high visitor density during peak hours.
Book Bohol Countryside Tour with Tarsier Sanctuary
Visit the Corella Sanctuary, Chocolate Hills, Bilar Man-Made Forest, and Baclayon Church in a seamless private day tour.
Strict Wildlife Viewing Code of Conduct
Tarsiers are extremely sensitive, solitary, and nocturnal creatures prone to fatal stress in noisy or crowded environments. All visitors must strictly adhere to the following conservation regulations:
- NO Camera Flashes: Tarsier eyes are adapted for darkness; flash photography can permanently blind or disorient them.
- Maintain Strict Silence: Keep voices to a whisper. Sudden loud noises induce severe stress.
- DO NOT Touch or Provoke: Physical contact is strictly illegal. Maintain at least a 2-meter viewing distance.
- No Selfie Sticks: Extending poles or cameras near their perches violates sanctuary rules.
Fascinating Tarsier Biology
A tarsier's eyes are proportionally larger than those of any other mammal relative to body size—each eyeball is approximately 16 mm in diameter and is heavier than the creature's entire brain. Because their eyes are fixed in their sockets, tarsiers can rotate their heads a remarkable 180 degrees in either direction to spot grasshoppers, crickets, and small lizards in pitch darkness.