Canna facts for kids
Canna is a small, beautiful island located in the Small Isles group, which is part of the Inner Hebrides in Scotland. It's known for its peaceful environment and stunning natural beauty. As of 2017, only about 12 people live on Canna, making it a very quiet place. The island is connected to its nearby neighbour, Sanday, by a single road, which makes it easy to travel between the two.
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What is Canna Like?
Canna is about 7 miles (11 km) long and 1 mile (1.6 km) wide. It has a varied landscape with cliffs, hills, and green pastures. The highest point on the island is a hill called Carn a' Ghaill. The island's coastline is rugged, with many interesting rock formations and sea caves.
Location and Geography
Canna is found off the west coast of Scotland. It is part of the Argyll and Bute council area. The island is mostly made of volcanic rock, which gives it a unique look. The soil is fertile in some areas, allowing for farming. The island's harbour is a safe place for boats, protected by the nearby island of Sanday.
Climate on Canna
The weather on Canna is typical for the west coast of Scotland. It has a mild, wet, and windy climate. The Gulf Stream, a warm ocean current, helps to keep temperatures from getting too cold in winter. Summers are generally cool and damp. This climate supports a lot of green plant life.
Who Owns Canna?
Since 1938, the island of Canna has been owned by the National Trust for Scotland. This organization works to protect and preserve important places in Scotland. They manage the island to keep its natural beauty and historical sites safe for future generations. This ownership helps to ensure that Canna remains a special place.
Wildlife and Nature
Canna is a haven for many types of wildlife, especially birds. The island's cliffs provide perfect nesting spots for thousands of seabirds.
Birdlife on Canna
Many different species of birds can be seen on Canna. These include puffins, guillemots, razorbills, and kittiwakes. Golden eagles and white-tailed eagles also hunt over the island. Birdwatchers from all over the world visit Canna to see these amazing creatures. The island is a protected area for its important bird populations.
Other Animals and Plants
Besides birds, Canna is home to other animals like seals, otters, and various types of deer. The waters around Canna are rich with marine life, including dolphins and whales. The island's plant life includes a variety of wildflowers and grasses. There are not many trees on Canna because of the strong winds.
History of Canna
Canna has a long and interesting history, with evidence of human activity dating back thousands of years.
Early Settlers
People have lived on Canna since the Stone Age. There are remains of ancient forts and settlements on the island. The Vikings also visited and settled on Canna many centuries ago. Their influence can still be seen in some place names on the island.
Later History
In more recent times, Canna was owned by various clans, including the MacLeods. The island's population was much larger in the past, but like many remote Scottish islands, it saw a decline in numbers over the centuries. The National Trust for Scotland has worked to encourage people to live and work on the island.
Life on the Island Today
Life on Canna is quiet and community-focused. The small number of residents work together to maintain the island.
Community and Services
The island has a small shop and a post office. There is also a small primary school for the few children who live there. The community relies on a ferry service to connect them to the mainland and other islands. This ferry brings supplies and visitors to Canna.
Tourism and Activities
Tourism is important for Canna's economy. Visitors come to enjoy the peace, wildlife, and beautiful scenery. Popular activities include walking, birdwatching, and exploring the island's historical sites. There are also opportunities for fishing and boat trips around the coast.
