Cooper Island (New Zealand) facts for kids
 Cooper Island
Location in New Zealand
Location in New Zealand
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| Geography | |
|---|---|
| Location | Fiordland |
| Coordinates | 45°44′S 166°50′E / 45.733°S 166.833°E |
| Area | 17.79 km2 (6.87 sq mi) |
| Highest elevation | 523 m (1,716 ft) |
| Administration | |
| Demographics | |
| Population | 0 |
Cooper Island is a special island located in Fiordland, a stunning region in the southwest of New Zealand's South Island. It sits quietly within a large, beautiful body of water called Dusky Sound. You can find it just to the east of another island, known as Long Island.
This island is a very important part of Fiordland National Park. It's actually the third-largest island in the park that doesn't have any possums. This makes it a safe haven for many native New Zealand plants and animals.
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Discovering Cooper Island
Cooper Island is a natural wonder in New Zealand. It covers an area of about 17.79 square kilometers. That's roughly the size of 1,779 rugby fields! The highest point on the island reaches 523 meters above sea level. Imagine standing on top and looking out at the amazing views of Fiordland.
Where is Cooper Island?
Cooper Island is found in the Fiordland region of New Zealand. This area is famous for its deep fiords, tall mountains, and thick forests. The island is specifically located inside Dusky Sound. This sound is one of the largest and most complex fiords in New Zealand. It has many smaller islands and hidden coves.
A Home for Wildlife
One of the most interesting facts about Cooper Island is that it has no possums. Possums are animals that were brought to New Zealand a long time ago. They can cause a lot of harm to native plants and birds. Because Cooper Island is free of possums, it's a safe place for many of New Zealand's unique species to thrive. This makes the island a very important conservation area. It helps protect the natural balance of the ecosystem.
Fiordland National Park
Cooper Island is part of the huge Fiordland National Park. This park is one of the largest national parks in the world. It covers over 12,000 square kilometers. The park is known for its incredible landscapes, including fiords, lakes, and waterfalls. It's also home to many rare and endangered animals.
Protecting Nature
Being part of a national park means Cooper Island is protected. This helps keep its natural beauty and wildlife safe for future generations. Park rangers and conservationists work hard to make sure the island remains a healthy environment. They monitor the wildlife and ensure no harmful animals like possums get onto the island. This protection helps native birds, insects, and plants flourish without threats.
