Bountiful Islands facts for kids
The Bountiful Islands are an important breeding site for roseate terns
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| Geography | |
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| Location | Northern Australia |
| Coordinates | 16°39′54″S 139°51′36″E / 16.665°S 139.86°E |
| Area | 4.5 km2 (1.7 sq mi) |
| Administration | |
| State | Queensland |
The Bountiful Islands are a small group of islands located in a big bay called the Gulf of Carpentaria. This bay is way up in Northern Australia. These islands are part of the state of Queensland and are looked after by the Shire of Mornington. They might be small, but they are super important, especially for many kinds of birds!
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Discover the Bountiful Islands!
These islands are a hidden gem in the vast waters of northern Australia. They are not very big, covering an area of about 4.5 square kilometers (which is about 442 hectares). To give you an idea, that's roughly the size of 600 football fields!
Where Are They Located?
The Bountiful Islands are found in the Gulf of Carpentaria, which is a large, shallow sea on the northern coast of Australia. They are part of the state of Queensland, known for its beautiful beaches and unique wildlife. Being in this remote area helps keep the islands safe and undisturbed, which is perfect for the wildlife that lives there.
A Special Home for Birds
What makes the Bountiful Islands truly special is their role as an Important Bird Area. This means they are recognized globally as a vital place for bird populations. Why are they so important? Because they provide a safe breeding ground for huge numbers of certain bird species. In fact, more than 1% of the entire world's population of two specific bird species comes here to nest!
Meet the Roseate Terns
One of the main bird species that loves the Bountiful Islands is the roseate tern. These elegant birds are known for their pale pink chests during breeding season. They are medium-sized seabirds that spend most of their lives near the coast, diving into the water to catch small fish. On these islands, you can find up to 2,000 pairs of roseate terns nesting! That's a lot of birds raising their chicks in one place.
Meet the Crested Terns
Another very important bird found here is the crested tern. These are larger terns with a shaggy black crest on their heads, which gives them their name. They are also expert fishers, often seen flying gracefully over the water before plunging down for a meal. The Bountiful Islands are home to an incredible number of crested terns, with estimates of 26,000 to 30,000 pairs! Imagine seeing that many birds all together – it's an amazing sight.
Protecting These Amazing Islands
Because the Bountiful Islands are so important for these bird species, it's crucial to protect them. Keeping the islands safe from human disturbance and pollution helps ensure that these birds have a secure place to raise their young year after year. This protection helps maintain the balance of nature and ensures that future generations can also witness the incredible birdlife of northern Australia.
