Capel Island facts for kids
|
Native name:
Oileán an Cháplaigh
|
|
|---|---|
View from the sea
|
|
 Capel Island
Location in island of Ireland
|
|
| Geography | |
| Location | Atlantic Ocean |
| Coordinates | 51°52′57.36″N 7°51′11.88″W / 51.8826000°N 7.8533000°W |
| Administration | |
| Province | Munster |
| County | Cork |
| Demographics | |
| Population | 0 |
Capel Island, known as Oileán an Cháplaigh in Gaeilge, is a small, special island off the coast of County Cork, Ireland. It's located close to Knockadoon Head, near the town of Youghal.
Contents
Protecting Capel Island's Nature
Capel Island and the nearby Knockadoon Head are super important for nature. In 1985, the Irish government made them a special "national nature reserve." This means the area is legally protected to keep its wildlife and habitats safe. Most of this reserve, about 314 acres (1.27 square kilometers), belongs to the government. A smaller part, around 40 acres (0.16 square kilometers), is privately owned. The protected area includes the island, Knockadoon Head, and the sea in between them.
Island Landmarks and Wildlife
If you look closely at Capel Island, you'll spot a tower. This tower is an incomplete lighthouse from the 1800s. It was never fully finished, but it still stands as a landmark on the island. The island is also home to a herd of wild goats. These goats roam freely, adding to the island's natural charm.
The Story Behind the Name
There's a cool story about how Capel Island got its name. Long ago, two men were having a swimming race to reach the island. The winner would get to own the island. As one man was just about to touch the land, the other quickly reached out with his sword. He touched the land first, just beating the other swimmer! A name connected to this exciting story is De Capel Brookes.
Visiting Capel Island
Because Capel Island is a protected nature reserve, you need special permission to land there. This permission comes from BirdWatch Ireland, an organization that helps protect birds and their habitats. This rule helps keep the island's wildlife safe and undisturbed.
