Positional behavior and social organization of the Philippine Tarsier (Tarsius syrichta)

This study provides preliminary data on the positional behavior and habitat use of the Philippine tarsier, Tarsius syrichta, which was studied in its natural habitat on the island of Leyte. The locomotor behavior of T. syrichta is quite comparable to the other species of tarsiers but frequency of use of different postures and support types does seem to distinguish this species from the others. Tarsius bancanus appears to be the most specialized, using vertical clinging postures the most frequently and sitting the least; Tarsius dianae uses vertical clinging the least frequently and sitting the most, and T. syrichta is intermediate. The Philippine tarsier has a small home range similar to that of T. spectrum. On the other hand, this species likely does not have the small family groups typical of Sulawesi tarsiers but instead uses a noyau system like T. bancanus. This data supports some aspects of NIEMITZ's (1977) model of anatomical and behavioral specialization among tarsier species.