The Philippine Tarsier (Tarsius syrichta), known locally as the Maumag in Cebuano/Visayan, is an endangered tarsier species endemic to the Philippines. It is found in the southeastern part of the archipelago, particularly in the islands of Bohol, Samar, Leyte, and Mindanao.[3] Its name is derived from its elongated "tarsus" or ankle bone.[4]
Its geographic range also includes Maripipi Island, Siargao Island, Basilan Island and Dinagat Island.[2] Tarsiers have also been reported in Sarangani, although they may be different subspecies. Being a member of a family that is about 45 million years old,[5] it was only introduced to western biologists in the 18th century.[6]
