Niemitz's tarsier
The world's smallest primate, a wide-eyed nocturnal hunter of the Togean night.
- Local name: Bunsing
- Scientific name: Tarsius niemitzi
Tarsius niemitzi are tiny nocturnal primates endemic to the Togean Islands, recognizable by enormous eyes adapted for night hunting and powerful vertical leaps through forest understory. They sleep hidden in dense vegetation during the day and emerge after dusk to hunt insects and small prey.
Key facts
- Habitat
- Lowland forest, scrubby woodland, gardens
- Diet
- Insects, spiders, small vertebrates
- Size
- Body 10-15 cm (very small)
- Behavior
- Nocturnal; agile leaper; calls at dusk
Where to see it
Found on night walks through forest edges, secondary woodland, and village gardens on most Togean islands except Una-Una. They're more common near mixed habitat where forest meets clearings, typically 1-4 meters above ground in small trees and shrubs.
How to spot it
Use a dim red light and scan slowly for eye-shine reflecting low in the understory. Move quietly and pause frequently — their high-pitched calls and rustling movements often reveal their location. Look for a tiny shape clinging vertically to thin branches or tree trunks.
Watching responsibly
- Use only red light — white light or flash blinds them and disrupts hunting.
- Keep voices low and avoid call playback — they're easily stressed by sound.
- Observe briefly and move on — prolonged attention affects their feeding behavior.
- Never approach daytime roost sites — disturbing their sleep reduces survival.
- Stay on established paths to minimize habitat disturbance.
Conservation
IUCN Endangered; highly sensitive to forest disturbance.
Ready to see it for yourself?
Our cruises run from Luwuk through the Togean archipelago. Check the departure schedule, or message us and we'll help you pick the trip that fits.