Barren Island, Falkland Islands facts for kids
{{Infobox settlement | name = Barren Island | type = Island | native_name = Isla Pelada | native_name_lang = es | other_name = | image_skyline = | image_caption = | image_map = | map_caption = | pushpin_map = Falkland Islands | pushpin_map_caption = Barren Island shown within the Falkland Islands | coordinates = 52°22′33″S 59°42′00″W / 52.37583°S 59.70000°W | subdivision_type = Country | subdivision_name = Falkland Islands | subdivision_type1 = Island group | subdivision_name1 = | named_for = | seat_type = Main settlement | seat = | area_total_km2 = 11.5 | area_rank = | elevation_max_m = | elevation_max_footnotes = | elevation_min_m = | elevation_min_footnotes = Barren Island is a small, quiet island located in the Falkland Islands. It is known for its natural beauty and peaceful environment. The island is found southwest of East Falkland, which is one of the two main islands in the Falklands group. Its name in Spanish is Isla Pelada, which means "Bald Island" or "Barren Island."
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About Barren Island
Barren Island covers an area of about 11.5 square kilometers (4.4 square miles). This makes it a relatively small island. It is part of the many islands that make up the Falkland Islands archipelago. The island's location is in the South Atlantic Ocean.
Where is Barren Island Located?
The island is situated at coordinates 52°22′33″S 59°42′00″W / 52.37583°S 59.70000°W. This places it in the southern part of the world. It lies off the coast of East Falkland. This area is known for its strong winds and unique wildlife.
Why is it Called Barren Island?
The name "Barren Island" might suggest that nothing grows there. However, this is not entirely true. The name likely refers to its flat, low-lying landscape. It may also mean it has fewer trees compared to other islands. Despite its name, the island supports various types of plants and animals.
Nature and Wildlife
Barren Island is an important place for many types of wildlife. Like many islands in the Falklands, it is a haven for birds. The island's remote location helps protect these animals.
Birds of Barren Island
Many seabirds choose Barren Island for nesting. You might find different kinds of penguins here. Other birds like cormorants and gulls also live on the island. These birds rely on the island's shores for food and shelter.
Plants and Landscape
The island's landscape is mostly low and flat. It has areas of tussac grass, which is very important. Tussac grass provides shelter for many birds and small animals. The island's plants are adapted to the windy and often harsh weather.
History and Buildings
Even though Barren Island is small, it has some historical significance. There are a couple of special buildings on the island. These buildings are recognized for their history.
Listed Buildings on the Island
There are two listed buildings on Barren Island. One is a house, and the other is a woolshed. A listed building means it is protected because of its historical importance. These structures show how people lived and worked on the island in the past. The woolshed, for example, was used for processing wool from sheep.
See also
In Spanish: Isla Pelada (Canal Águila) para niños