Field research in Anda

Long-term research on the population of tarsiers and colugos in the municipality of Anda, Bohol.

Kahibalo » Our projects » Research in Anda

Study of the population and conservation aspects of endemic species of Philippine mammals in the municipality of Anda, Bohol

In cooperation with the municipality of Anda, Bohol, we have started research on the Philippine tarsiers and colugos populations in the municipality. This is a long-term project that aims to provide reliable data about species populations and provide solutions for their protection.

Field studies in Anda, Bohol in a nutshell

How do we operate and what do we want to achieve with research in Anda?

Confirmation of the tarsiers and colugos presence as well as mapping their occurence as well as assessing populations size in the forests of Anda, Bohol
Training Filipino students to conduct research, and as a result, train a new generation of researchers
Understanding expectations of local residents towards nature conservation

Badania populacyjne nad lotokotami i wyrakami w Anda na wyspie Bohol - Fundacja Kahibalo

Philippine tarsier and colugo – endemic species

The Philippines is home to many endemic species, one of which is one of the smallest primates in the world, the Philippine tarsier (Carlito syrichta) and the other, the Philippine colugo (Cynocephalus volans), is one of only two members of the colugo family. These two species are found on the same islands in the Philippines (Visayas and Mindanao regions), at least according to anecdotal information. One of the Philippine islands that these two species naturally inhabit is Bohol. Several studies on Philippine tarsiers have been conducted on this island so far, but only in two municipalities: Corella and Bilar. On the other hand, no research has been done on Philippine colugos in Bohol. Considering the well-maintained forest habitats in Anda municipality and having unconfirmed information about the presence of these species in the area, we have decided to start a research project there.

Goals of the research project in Anda

The project aims to map the distribution and population size of tarsiers and colugos throughout the municipality, and to explore the views of local residents on these endemic mammals in the area. Assessing the population of these endemic mammals is only part of the project as we train Filipino biology students to conduct research to train a new generation of Filipino researchers. In June 2023, we started a project with a group of 8 students from the University of San Carlos. The students conducted research as part of their bachelor’s theses, under the direct supervision of Dr. Otadoy and Dr. Wojciechowski. Upon the completion of this several-year project, we want to provide Anda Municipality with reliable data on the current status of Philippine tarsiers and colugos as well as the expectations of the local population regarding their protection!