Davidof Island facts for kids
Davidof Island (called Qanan-tanax̂ in the Aleut language) is a small island in the Rat Islands group. This group is part of the Western Aleutian Islands in Alaska, United States. Davidof Island has an unusual shape. It is about 2 miles (3.2 km) long from north to south. Its widest part is about 0.7 miles (1.1 km) across.
The island has two high points. The southern part reaches 1,074 feet (327 meters) high. The northern part is 922 feet (281 meters) high. Some rocks on the north side of the island have changed due to hot water. The eastern tip of the island has a noticeable cone-shaped peak. It is a grayish-tan color.
How Was Davidof Island Formed?
Scientists believe Davidof Island is part of a very old, huge volcano. This volcano likely had two peaks. It was destroyed in a massive eruption a very long time ago. Davidof Island, along with smaller islands like Lopy and Pyramid, are thought to be what's left of the edge of that ancient volcano's crater. Khvostof Island is also believed to be a piece of the volcano's western side.
Davidof Island has steep, rocky shores. These shores rise up to a flat area in the middle of the island. This flat area reaches a height of about 328 meters (1,076 feet). Most of the coastline has steep slopes or beaches made of large rocks and pebbles. However, Crater Bay, on the southwest side, has a sandy beach.
What Animals Live on Davidof Island?
Davidof Island is home to many seabirds. A large group of tufted puffins live there. Horned puffins also have a significant colony on the island. These birds often nest in burrows on the island's slopes.
