Eureka Island facts for kids
| Geography | |
|---|---|
| Location | Ohio River, West Virginia |
| Coordinates | 39°22′21″N 81°17′38″W / 39.3725749°N 81.2940044°W |
| Administration | |
Eureka Island is a small, important island located in the Ohio River. You can find it in Pleasants County, West Virginia. It's southwest of the city of Belmont and another island called Broadback Island.
The island gets its name from a nearby community in West Virginia, also called Eureka. This special island is part of a bigger protected area. It belongs to the Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge.
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About Eureka Island
Eureka Island is one of many islands found along the Ohio River. These islands are not just pieces of land in the water. They are important natural habitats. They provide homes for many different kinds of plants and animals.
The Ohio River flows through several states in the United States. It is a major waterway. Islands like Eureka are formed by the river's flow over many years.
Part of a Special Refuge
Eureka Island is a key part of the Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge. This refuge was created to protect wildlife. It helps keep the natural environment safe for animals and plants.
The refuge includes 22 islands and some land along the riverbanks. These areas stretch for about 362 miles. They go from Shippingport, Pennsylvania to Manchester, Ohio.
Why Refuges Are Important
National Wildlife Refuges are special places. They are managed by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. Their main goal is to protect wild animals and their homes.
These refuges help many species. They are especially important for animals that are rare or endangered. They also offer places for birds to rest during their long migrations.
What Lives on the Island?
While Eureka Island is small, it supports a variety of life. Islands in the Ohio River often have forests. These forests are home to many types of trees.
You might find different kinds of birds on the island. Many birds use the islands for nesting and feeding. Fish and other water creatures live in the river around the island.
Small mammals might also live on the island. These could include raccoons or squirrels. The refuge works to keep these habitats healthy. This helps all the creatures that call the island home.
