Tandurusa Wildlife Park

Exploring Endemic Wonders at Tandurusa Wildlife Park, Bitung

North Sulawesi is not only known for the underwater beauty of Bunaken or the mountainous charm of Tomohon. In the heart of Bitung City, precisely in Tandurusa Village, Aertembaga District, lies an educational recreational destination that offers a unique experience of encountering the rare animals that inhabit Sulawesi Island. Tandurusa Wildlife Park is not just an ordinary zoo; it is a window into conservation that introduces the rich biodiversity of Wallacea to the world.

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A Journey Through the Destination's History and Evolution

Tandurusa Wildlife Park has a long history that began with a love for local wildlife. Initially, this place evolved from a private collection that was later managed more professionally to become a means of public education. Over time, it transformed from a mere sanctuary into a major tourist icon in Bitung.

The Bitung City Government continues to undertake renovations and facility upgrades to ensure the welfare of the animals and the comfort of visitors. This evolution is evident in the enclosure designs that are beginning to adopt a semi-natural concept, providing better space for the inhabitants and offering clearer observation points for tourists.

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The Main Attraction: Meeting the Tiny Tarsius Spectrum

The primary draw that has made Tandurusa Wildlife Park world-renowned is the presence of the Tarsius spectrum. The world's smallest primate is an endemic Sulawesi animal with unique characteristics, featuring large eyes that cannot move sideways and a head that can rotate up to 180 degrees.

Unlike spotting Tarsius in the wild at the Tangkoko Nature Reserve, which requires hours of trekking, at Tandurusa, visitors can observe this nocturnal creature up close in a special enclosure designed to mimic its natural habitat. The experience of seeing a Tarsius clinging to a small tree branch is a highly sought-after photographic moment for both international and domestic tourists.

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A Variety of Endemic Animals and Unique Collections

Besides the Tarsius, a visit to Tandurusa offers visitors the opportunity to see various other characteristic Sulawesi animals that are difficult to find elsewhere:

1. Babirusa (*Babyrousa babyrussa*): This animal with long tusks piercing its snout is a major attraction due to its exotic physical appearance.

2. Anoa: The dwarf buffalo native to Sulawesi, known for being shy yet resilient. Visitors can observe two types of anoa here: the lowland anoa and the highland anoa.

3. Sulawesi Black Macaque (*Macaca nigra*): Known locally as "Yaki," this primate with a distinctive crest of hair and pink hindquarters is very active and often interacts with visitors through playful gestures within its enclosure.

4. Bird Collection: Various bird species such as the Sulawesi Hornbill (Knobbed Hornbill) with its large, colorful beak, as well as Cockatoos and Parrots, adorn the aviary area.

5. Reptiles: There is a collection of large pythons and crocodiles housed in a special area at the back of the park.

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Recreational Activities and Educational Experiences

Tandurusa Wildlife Park offers a comprehensive recreational experience. Visitors don't just come to watch; they also come to learn.

• Family Educational Tours: Parents often bring their children to introduce the importance of preserving nature. Information boards are placed at each enclosure, explaining the scientific name, habitat, and conservation status of the animals.
• Nature Photography: For photography enthusiasts, this place is a paradise for capturing close-up details of the animals. The natural lighting under the dense trees creates a dramatic photographic atmosphere.
• Limited Interaction: Under the supervision of staff, at certain times, visitors can witness the feeding process, which provides insight into the dietary patterns of these endemic animals.

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Facilities and Visitor Comfort

To support a comfortable recreational experience, Tandurusa Wildlife Park is equipped with various facilities:

• Shaded Walking Paths: The entire park area is shaded by large trees, making the air feel cool even though Bitung is a port city that tends to be hot.
• Rest Areas and Gazebos: Seating areas and gazebos are available for families who wish to relax for a moment while enjoying packed meals or simply breathing in the fresh air.
• Souvenir and Culinary Kiosks: Around the entrance area, local vendors sell North Sulawesi specialty snacks and Tarsius-themed souvenirs.
• Accessibility: Its location on the edge of the Lembeh Strait coast offers a bonus of beautiful sea views as visitors approach the park.

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Cultural Significance and Community Role

For the people of Bitung, Tandurusa Wildlife Park is a local pride. This place serves as a symbol of regional identity rich in natural resources. The existence of this park encourages the local community to be more concerned about environmental issues and illegal wildlife trade. The role of the surrounding community as tour guides also demonstrates synergy between tourism and grassroots economic empowerment.

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Visitor Information and Best Times to Visit

Tandurusa Wildlife Park is open daily from morning until afternoon. However, here are some tips for maximizing your recreational experience:

• Visiting Hours: The best times to visit are in the morning (09:00 - 11:00) when the animals tend to be more active, or in the afternoon (15:00 - 17:00) when the air temperature is cooler.
• Visiting Etiquette: Given that Tarsius are nocturnal animals sensitive to light, visitors are strictly prohibited from using flash photography when photographing them. Quietness is also highly maintained to avoid stressing the animals.
• Location and Access: From the center of Manado City, the land journey to Bitung takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours via the toll road. From the center of Bitung City, continue towards the Aertembaga Fisheries Port.

Tandurusa Wildlife Park is a must-visit destination for anyone wishing to experience closeness with Sulawesi's nature. With a very affordable entrance fee, visitors receive a complete package of recreation: entertainment, knowledge, and awareness of the importance of preserving Indonesia's natural heritage for future generations.