Cervantes Islands facts for kids
The Cervantes Islands are a small group of islands located off the coast of Western Australia. You can find them southwest of the town called Cervantes.
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Exploring the Cervantes Islands
The Cervantes Islands are made up of three separate islands. Each one has its own size and distance from the mainland:
- North Cervantes Island: This is the largest island, covering about 2.84 hectares (7.0 acres). It's located about 1.6 kilometres (1.0 mi) from the mainland and reaches a height of 8 metres (26 ft) above sea level.
- Middle Cervantes Island: This island is smaller, with an area of about 0.45 ha (1.1 acres). It sits about 2.6 km (1.6 mi) from the mainland.
- South Cervantes Island: This island covers about 0.71 ha (1.8 acres). It is located about 2.7 km (1.7 mi) from the mainland.
Part of a Bigger Reserve
These islands are part of a special protected area called the Jurien Bay Marine Park. They also belong to the Turquoise Coast islands nature reserve group. This reserve is a long chain of 40 islands that stretches over 150 kilometres (93 mi) along the coast.
How the Islands Got Their Name
The Cervantes Islands were named after an American whaling ship. This ship was unfortunately wrecked near North Cervantes Island in the year 1844. The ship itself was named after a famous writer from Spain, Miguel de Cervantes.
Wildlife on the Islands
The islands are home to some interesting animals. One of the most well-known inhabitants is the Australian sea lion. These amazing marine mammals are often seen resting or playing around the Cervantes Islands.
