Tarsier Conservation: The main purpose of the LTCA is to conserve tarsiers and provide them with a safe environment. However, the high volume of tourists visiting the area can result in overcrowding and disturbance to the tarsiers, affecting their natural behaviors and potentially causing stress. Tarsiers are nocturnal and highly sensitive to noise, light, and sudden movements, which can be disruptive to their normal sleep patterns and breeding cycles.
Close Interactions: The LTCA often allows visitors to come very close to the tarsiers, even allowing physical interactions like holding them for photo opportunities. This can be very stressful and harmful for these small and delicate animals. Tarsiers are prone to anxiety, and close contact can increase their risk of disease and injury. For example, the Philippine tarsier has a delicate tail, which can easily break or be damaged if mishandled.
Flash Photography: The LTCA allows flash photography near the tarsiers, and this can be especially harmful to their sensitive eyes. Their large, almond-shaped eyes have adapted for night vision, and sudden flashes can temporarily disorient them. Flash photography can also disrupt their circadian rhythms and interfere with their ability to see in low-light conditions.
Unnatural Environment: The tarsiers at the LTCA are kept in enclosures that are not their natural habitat. While these enclosures may provide protection from predators, they often lack the trees and vegetation necessary for the tarsiers to behave naturally. As a result, the animals may be restricted in their movements and exhibit abnormal behaviors.
Lack of Education: Some critics argue that the LTCA does not adequately educate visitors about tarsiers and the importance of their conservation. Visitors may not fully understand the negative impact of their presence and interactions on these animals. Providing comprehensive information about tarsier biology and conservation can help visitors appreciate these unique creatures from a distance.
Exploitation: The LTCA’s focus on commercial activities, such as allowing visitors to hold and interact with tarsiers, may prioritize profit over the well-being of the animals. Tarsiers are wild creatures, not pets, and using them for entertainment compromises their welfare.
Alternatives: There are alternative ways to observe and learn about tarsiers without causing them harm. Researchers and conservation organizations often have ethical observation practices and conduct tours with a strong emphasis on conservation and minimal disturbance to the animals. It’s important to support these responsible efforts rather than contributing to potentially harmful practices.
In conclusion, while the Loboc Tarsier Conservation Area may offer a glimpse of the Philippine tarsier, it raises concerns regarding the welfare of these animals and their conservation status. To truly promote the protection of tarsiers and ensure their long-term survival, it’s advisable to seek alternatives that prioritize responsible observation and conservation practices.
