Another tarsier found dead in Samar, raising concerns over wildlife protection

ASM, Philippine Canadian Inquirer
October 26, 2026

Photo courtesy: Calbayog: The City of Waterfalls

CALBAYOG CITY, Samar — A Philippine tarsier was found dead along a road in Calbayog City on Friday, October 23, raising fresh concerns over the safety of the country’s native wildlife following similar discoveries in the area.

The animal was spotted along a road connecting Barangays Cacaransan and Saputan, about three kilometers from the city proper.

Social worker Abicer Lim Doroja learned of the incident after a friend sent him footage of the dead tarsier. He expressed sadness over the discovery, particularly because other tarsiers had reportedly been found dead in the same area.

“Nanlambot talaga kami kasi ‘yung tarsier is one of our favorite animals din po,” Doroja said.

Doroja suspects that loud noise from nearby tree-cutting activities may have contributed to the animal’s death. He cited reports of chainsaws being used to cut coconut trees and lumber in the vicinity.

However, the cause of death remains undetermined, and no direct connection to the reported activities has been established.

The incident has renewed concerns about human disturbances affecting the Philippine tarsier, a small nocturnal primate known for its large eyes and sensitivity to environmental changes.

Found naturally in Samar, Leyte, Bohol, and Mindanao, the Philippine tarsier (Carlito syrichta) is classified as Near Threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

The species faces threats from habitat loss, forest fragmentation, and human interference. Excessive noise, bright lights, and direct contact can also cause stress to these animals.

Doroja shared the discovery online to raise awareness and encourage greater protection for tarsiers in Calbayog.

With similar deaths reported in the area, the latest discovery has raised questions about the conditions affecting local tarsier populations and the need for closer wildlife monitoring.