Emperor Island facts for kids
 Emperor Island
Location in Antarctica
Location in Antarctica
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| Geography | |
|---|---|
| Location | Antarctica |
| Coordinates | 67°52′S 68°43′W / 67.867°S 68.717°W |
| Administration | |
| Administered under the Antarctic Treaty System | |
| Demographics | |
| Population | Uninhabited |
Emperor Island is a small island located in Marguerite Bay. It lies near the Courtier Islands within the Dion Islands group. This island is part of Antarctica, a continent known for its icy landscapes.
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About Emperor Island
Where is Emperor Island?
Emperor Island is found in a part of Antarctica called Graham Land. This area is very cold and mostly covered in ice. The island itself is quite small. It is located in a bay, which is a part of the sea that is partly enclosed by land.
How did Emperor Island get its name?
The islands in this group were first explored in 1909. This was done by the French Antarctic Expedition. They made rough maps of the area.
Later, in 1948, the island was more carefully studied. This survey was carried out by the Falkland Islands Dependencies Survey. The island was named by the UK Antarctic Place-Names Committee. It got its name because of a special reason. A low strip of land made of rock and pebbles, called an isthmus, was found there. This isthmus was once a place where emperor penguins would breed during the winter.
Home to Special Birds
What is an Important Bird Area?
A large part of Emperor Island, about 467 hectares, is very important for birds. This area is called an Important Bird Area (IBA). It was given this special title by BirdLife International. An IBA is a place that is key for bird populations. It helps protect birds and their homes.
This area is also an Antarctic Specially Protected Area (ASPA) No.107. ASPAs are places in Antarctica that are protected. They are important for their scientific, environmental, or historical value.
Who lives here now?
Emperor Island is home to a breeding group of Antarctic shags. These are large birds that dive for fish. They build their nests and raise their young on the island.
Even though the island is named after emperor penguins, they likely do not breed there anymore. Scientists believe they have moved to other locations. However, the island remains a vital spot for other seabirds.
