Peling Island, off the coast of the much larger island of Sulawesi in Indonesia, is the last refuge on Earth for the endemic Endangered Peleng Tarsier and the Critically Endangered Banggai Crow.

At just over 895 square miles, Peling (also spelled Peleng) Island is slightly smaller than Rhode Island. Once covered in dense tropical forests rich in endemics, now the island is a patchwork of forested fragments. Despite its degradation, the remaining areas of this lush tropical landscape are home to pockets of astounding biodiversity found only in this unique ecoregion. The predominantly low-lying island landscape is 97% coralline limestone, or karst, a rare and fragile habitat that nurtures distinctive communities of plant and animal species.

With the support of Rainforest Trust, our partner, Burung Indonesia, found the greatest abundance of rare and endemic species in two key areas—Kokolomboi and Bajomoute Pondi-Pondi. Many of these are in need of urgent protection, including the Critically Endangered Banggai Crow and the Endangered Peleng Tarsier, as well as seven vulnerable species of birds. Rainforest Trust seeks support to create two community-based Protected Areas to safeguard as a sanctuary for these island-dwelling species that exist nowhere else.

Save the last remnants of rare tropical island forest

The endemic Peleng Tarsier (EN) is the only primate found on the island. This tiny primate measures a mere five inches–shorter than most cell phones. Agile and social, the Peleng Tarsier prefers to live in groups of two to six individuals.

The endemic Banggai Crow (CR)—whose total surviving population is estimated to be between 50 to 249 individuals—is a branch-nester preferring tall trees. This crow is found only on Peling Island, and it has been documented in our target project areas, as have the Banggai Scops-owl (VU), Banggai Fruit-dove (VU) and Blue-faced Rail (VU).

Protect endangered species from habitat degradation

The greatest threat to rare Peling Island species is deforestation for agriculture and development. Climate disruption is another threat to vulnerable species—causing extended dry seasons and drought leading to more frequent forest fires. Wildlife hunting for exotic parrots and other birds for the international pet trade is another ongoing threat.

Support local communities

Four villages are located in each of the proposed Protected Areas, with at least seven cultural groups represented. Our partner will work with these groups to ensure a community-led approach to conservation that protects the biodiversity and their livelihoods through sustainable agriculture and ecotourism development.

A biodiversity survey will be conducted to develop a strategy to protect the endangered and threatened species found on Peling Island. These solutions will be created in consultation with the local communities to ensure their success.