Big Torch Key facts for kids
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Aerial view of Big Torch Key, October 1987
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 Big Torch Key
Location in Florida
Big Torch Key
Location in Caribbean
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| Geography | |
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| Location | Gulf of Mexico |
| Coordinates | 24°43′06″N 81°26′18″W / 24.71826°N 81.438346°W |
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| State | Florida |
| County | Monroe |
Big Torch Key is a beautiful island located in the lower part of the Florida Keys. The Florida Keys are a chain of tropical islands in Florida, United States. They stretch about 120 miles (190 km) into the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico.
Big Torch Key is found just north of Middle Torch Key. These two islands are connected by a special road called a causeway. A causeway is like a bridge that crosses over water or wet land.
The island gets its name from a tree called Sea Torchwood (Amyris elemifera). This type of tree naturally grows on the island. Big Torch Key is the largest of the three main Torch Keys. However, it is the only one not directly crossed by U.S. 1, a major highway that connects many of the Florida Keys.
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Exploring Big Torch Key
Big Torch Key is part of a unique island chain. It offers a glimpse into the natural beauty of the Florida Keys. The island is known for its quiet, natural surroundings. It is a great place to learn about island life.
What's in a Name?
The name "Torch Key" comes from the Sea Torchwood tree. This tree was once used to make torches because its wood burns brightly. Imagine using a piece of wood from a tree to light your way! This is how the island got its interesting name.
Getting Around the Keys
Many islands in the Florida Keys are connected by bridges and causeways. This allows people to drive from one island to another. While Big Torch Key is connected to Middle Torch Key by a causeway, the main U.S. Route 1 highway does not go directly through it. This helps Big Torch Key remain a bit more secluded and peaceful.
Nature and Wildlife
The Florida Keys are famous for their amazing natural environment. Big Torch Key shares many of these features. The waters around the island are often clear and home to many kinds of marine life.
Island Ecosystems
Islands like Big Torch Key are important habitats. They have unique ecosystems, which are communities of living things and their environment. You might find mangrove trees growing along the shore. Mangroves are special trees that can grow in saltwater. They provide shelter for young fish and other creatures.
Animals of the Keys
The waters around Big Torch Key are part of a larger marine environment. This area is home to many types of fish, crabs, and birds. Sometimes, you might even spot larger marine animals like manatees or dolphins in the nearby waters. The land also supports various birds and small animals adapted to island life.
History of the Torch Keys
Big Torch Key has a long history. It was once the site of an early settlement. This means people lived there a long time ago.
Early Inhabitants
Before modern times, Native American tribes lived in the Florida Keys. They used the islands for fishing and gathering food. They were skilled at living off the land and sea. Later, explorers and settlers from other parts of the world arrived. They found the islands to be good places for fishing and trade.
Island Development
Over time, some parts of the Florida Keys developed into towns and cities. However, many islands, like Big Torch Key, have kept their natural charm. They are important for preserving the unique environment of the Keys.
Images for kids
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Aerial view of Big Torch Key, October 1987
