Hales Island (Queensland) facts for kids
| Geography | |
|---|---|
| Location | Northern Australia |
| Coordinates | 14°11′02″S 144°32′17″E / 14.184°S 144.538°E |
| Area | 0.01 km2 (0.0039 sq mi) |
| Administration | |
| State | Queensland |
Hales Island is a small, special island located off the coast of Queensland, Australia. It is part of the amazing Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. This tiny island is about 5 kilometers (3 miles) east of a place called Cape Melville.
Hales Island is very small, only about 1 hectare in size. That's like a single soccer field! Even though it's tiny, it plays an important role in its natural environment.
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About Hales Island
Hales Island is found in the northern part of Queensland. It is a part of the famous Great Barrier Reef. The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest coral reef system. It is made up of thousands of individual reefs and islands.
Location and Size
Hales Island is located in the Coral Sea. This sea is part of the Pacific Ocean. The island's exact coordinates are 14.184 degrees south and 144.538 degrees east. This helps scientists and sailors find it on a map.
The island covers an area of about 0.01 square kilometers. This makes it one of the smaller islands in the Great Barrier Reef. Despite its size, it is a valuable part of the marine park.
The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park
Hales Island is protected as part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. This park was created to protect the reef's plants and animals. It is one of the largest marine parks in the world.
The park helps keep the ocean healthy. It protects coral reefs, fish, and other sea creatures. It also looks after islands like Hales Island. These islands are important places for birds and other wildlife.
Wildlife on Hales Island
Even though Hales Island is small, it is home to important wildlife. One of the most notable animals found here is a type of bird. This bird is called the Torresian imperial pigeon.
Torresian Imperial Pigeons
Hales Island has a large group of Torresian imperial pigeons. These birds are quite striking. They have white bodies and black wings. They are larger than most pigeons you might see in a city.
These pigeons are known for their long flights. They often fly between islands and the mainland. They look for food like fruits and berries. Hales Island provides a safe place for them to rest and nest.
Why Hales Island is Important for Pigeons
Islands like Hales Island are crucial for birds. They offer a safe haven away from predators. The pigeons can build their nests in the island's trees. They can raise their young without much disturbance.
The island's plants provide food for the pigeons. The surrounding waters offer a rich environment. This makes Hales Island a perfect spot for these beautiful birds. Protecting the island helps protect the pigeons.
