CALBAYOG CITY, Samar – Demands for enhanced protection of wildlife are mounting following the report of another dead tarsier found near a road in Calbayog City, Samar. This result has raised concerns among residents about the safety of these little animals, and the possible effect of human activities on their natural habitat.
The latest incident has sparked calls for the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to investigate the reported deaths and to take action to protect the remaining tarsiers.
Tarsiers are small primates with very big eyes that can jump from tree to tree. They are sensitive to changes in their environment and need a safe environment for survival.
Concern grows as tarsiers keep dying
Social worker Abicer Lim Doroja is concerned after a friend who frequently runs in the area sent him a photo of a dead tarsier. The picture showed the animal lying on the roadway.
“I was sad when I found this because tarsiers are one of my favorite animals,” said Doroja. They go to places like Bohol to see these little primates,” he said.
The incident was even more alarming as other dead tarsiers were said to have been found in the same area. Doroja also recalled that earlier this year, runners found a dead tarsier there.
What might be causing the deaths and whether enough is being done to protect the animals has been raised in repeated reports.
Possible Cause Noise Loud
Doroja believes that the noise from chainsaws in tree-cutting activities may have affected the tarsiers. People have been cutting coconut trees or wood in the area,” he said.
But no connection has been made between the noise and the death of the animal. More work is needed to establish the real cause.
Tarsiers are easily disturbed by loud noises, bright lights and direct human contact. These situations can cause stress and affect their well-being.
They are small and have special needs so if people disturb their home they can easily be hurt. Wildlife experts usually tell the public to leave the animals alone and to stay away from anything that might endanger them.
Protection of Environment and Animals
It has also highlighted the need to protect tarsier habitats. These animals need trees and natural areas to shelter, to feed and to be safe.
If trees are cut down and their habitat is damaged, it can be harder to survive. The wildlife conservation efforts should include protection of forests and reduction of the harmful human activities.
Residents can also help by reporting injured or dead animals to the proper authorities. Don’t touch. Keep tarsiers as pets and catch them.
DENR to Act
Doroja posted the photo online to raise awareness and encourage people to protect tarsiers in Calbayog City.
The recurrent findings have amplified pressure on authorities to consider possible threats including road risks, tree cutting, noise and habitat damage.
The DENR can help determine the situation, probe the reported deaths and find out how to prevent a similar thing from happening.
Residents hope more awareness and a more vigorous action will save the remaining tarsiers. This latest find is a reminder that wildlife needs safe places to live and that protecting these animals takes cooperation between communities and government agencies.