Breaksea Islands (Tasmania) facts for kids
Location off the southwestern coast of Tasmania
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Geography | |
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Location | Port Davey |
Coordinates | 43°19′12″S 145°57′36″E / 43.32000°S 145.96000°E |
Adjacent bodies of water | Southern Ocean |
Total islands | 6 |
Area | 16 ha (40 acres) |
Administration | |
Australia
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State | Tasmania |
Region | South West |
Demographics | |
Population | 0 |
The Breaksea Islands Group is a collection of six small islands. They are located in the Southern Ocean, off the southwestern coast of Tasmania, Australia. These islands are found near the mouth of Port Davey.
The group includes North Breaksea Island, Main Breaksea Island, Fitzroy Island, Kathleen Island, and Munday Island. It also includes the Mavourneen Rocks. Together, the islands cover about 16 hectares (about 40 acres). They are part of the Southwest National Park. This park is also part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Site. The islands are also within the Port Davey/Bathurst Harbour Marine Nature Reserve.
Wildlife on the Islands
The Breaksea Islands are very important for many types of seabirds. These birds come here to breed and raise their young.
Bird Species
Many different seabirds use these islands as a safe place to nest. Some of the birds found here include:
- Little penguin (about 400 pairs)
- Short-tailed shearwater (between 3000 and 5000 pairs)
- Fairy prion (about 20 pairs)
- Silver gull
The islands are also home to the Tasmanian tree skink, which is a type of lizard.
Important Bird Area
The Breaksea Islands are part of the Port Davey Islands Important Bird Area. This area is recognized by BirdLife International. It is important because it provides a vital breeding ground for many seabirds.
Past Challenges
In the 1800s, whalers brought rabbits to the islands. These rabbits caused some damage to the plants and soil over time.