Fletcher Island (Nunavut) facts for kids
Geography | |
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Location | Frobisher Bay |
Coordinates | 63°12′0″N 67°48′0″W / 63.20000°N 67.80000°W |
Archipelago | Canadian Arctic Archipelago |
Administration | |
Canada
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Nunavut | Nunavut |
Region | Qikiqtaaluk |
Demographics | |
Population | Uninhabited |
Fletcher Island is a small, uninhabited island located in the cold, northern part of Canada. It's found within Frobisher Bay, which is a large inlet of the Atlantic Ocean. This island is part of the huge Canadian Arctic Archipelago, a group of many islands in the Arctic Ocean. Fletcher Island is considered an offshore island of Baffin Island, one of the largest islands in the world.
Contents
Where is Fletcher Island?
Fletcher Island is located in the territory of Nunavut, Canada's largest and newest territory. It lies within Frobisher Bay, a long bay that cuts into the southeastern part of Baffin Island. The island is situated north of an area called Newell Sound. To its east is the Hall Peninsula, a large piece of land that sticks out into the bay.
Nearby Islands
Several other islands are close to Fletcher Island. To the east, you can find Field Island. Northeast of Fletcher Island is Bruce Island. If you look to the west, you'll see Pike Island and Pugh Island. These islands are all part of the same rugged, icy landscape in the Canadian Arctic.
Life in the Arctic
Even though Fletcher Island itself is uninhabited, the surrounding Arctic region is home to unique wildlife and has a rich history. The environment is very cold, with long, dark winters and short, cool summers. The land is often covered in permafrost, which is ground that stays frozen all year round.
Arctic Animals
Animals that live in the Canadian Arctic are specially adapted to the cold. You might find polar bears, seals, and various types of birds in the wider region. Marine life, like fish and whales, also thrives in the cold waters around these islands. These animals play a vital role in the Arctic ecosystem.
Importance of Arctic Islands
Islands like Fletcher Island are important for several reasons. They are part of a unique ecosystem that helps scientists study climate change and its effects on the environment. They also serve as important habitats for wildlife, especially migratory birds that use them for nesting. Historically, these islands were important for exploration and navigation in the Arctic.