Tarsier Endangered Animals

Tarsiers are endangered primates native to the Philippines whose existence dates back 45 million years. They are considered to be one of the most ancient living species on land. The varieties include the Philippine, eastern and western tarsiers. They are endangered because of the destruction of their natural habitat in the forests and because they are hunted in order to be used as pets. Tarsiers can live 12 to 20 years in their natural environment; ones held in captivity usually survive only two to five years.

  1. Physical Characteristics

    • Tarsiers are categorized as being among the smallest in the primate species. They are approximately the size of an adult man's hand. They emerge at birth weighing 4 to 5 ounces. They have gray fur, but their long tails are mostly furless with the exception of a small mass of hair at the end. They use their tails as a tool to aid in balancing themselves. Their large eyes are wide-open and their middle finger is much longer than the others.

    Nightly Rituals

    • Tarsiers make their homes in plant roots, the bottom of tree trunks or holes in treetops. They are most active at night. They spend most of their time hunting for nourishment such as crickets, cockroaches and other insects, but they will sometimes eat bats, birds and reptiles. Captive tarsiers often eat a diet of fish and shrimp.

    Communication

    • Tarsiers use several different types of calling sounds to communicate. Their loudest one is a single, ear-piercing sound. When they come together in a group, they make chirping sounds. The females have a unique chirp that they make when they become fertile. They enjoy being vocal as they play, snuggle, groom and mark scents.

    Reproduction

    • Tarsiers are ready for mating after age 2. The mating season for tarsiers is year round, and after an approximate six-month gestation period, the female produces one newborn. Females have the sole caretaking role. The mother uses her mouth to carry the baby or she holds it on her stomach. Babies are breastfed for two months and are fully mobile after about a month's time.