Hiiumaa facts for kids
![]() Tahkuna peninsula is the northernmost part of Hiiumaa
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Geography | |
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Location | Baltic Sea |
Archipelago | West Estonian archipelago |
Area | 989 km2 (382 sq mi) |
Highest elevation | 68 m (223 ft) |
Highest point | Tornimägi |
Administration | |
Estonia
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County, parish | Hiiu County, Hiiumaa Parish |
Largest settlement | Kärdla (pop. 3,287 [as of 1 January 2012]) |
Demographics | |
Population | 9,558 (2019) |
Pop. density | 9.1 /km2 (23.6 /sq mi) |
Hiiumaa is a super cool island in Estonia, and it's the second largest one! It's part of a group of islands called the West Estonian archipelago, sitting right in the Baltic Sea. Imagine an island about 22 kilometers away from the main part of Estonia – that's Hiiumaa! It covers an area of 989 square kilometers. The biggest town on the island is Kärdla, and the whole island is part of Hiiu County.
Hiiumaa is a really special place for nature lovers, with lots of different animals and beautiful landscapes. It's known for its peaceful forests, sandy beaches, and unique wildlife.
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Amazing Animals of Hiiumaa
Hiiumaa is home to many interesting animals, both big and small. You can find large animals like elk, red deer, and roe deer roaming through the forests. There are also wild boars, which are a type of pig that lives in the wild.
Predators and Other Mammals
The island also has some clever predators like foxes and lynxes. Lynxes are wild cats with tufted ears and short tails. You might also spot martens, which are small, furry animals related to weasels.
Something exciting happened on Hiiumaa: wolves, which had disappeared from the island a long time ago, have started to come back! This is a great sign for the island's natural balance. In 2000, minks, which are small, dark-furred animals, were also brought back to the island.
Birds of Hiiumaa
If you love birdwatching, Hiiumaa is a fantastic place to visit. Many different bird species live here or stop by during their migrations. Some of the amazing birds you might see include black storks, which are large wading birds, and golden eagles, powerful birds of prey.
You can also spot graceful cranes, elegant avocets with their distinctive upturned beaks, and beautiful swans gliding on the water. The island's diverse habitats, from forests to wetlands, provide perfect homes for all these feathered friends.
Exploring Hiiumaa's Nature
Hiiumaa is famous for its natural beauty and historical landmarks. The island has a gentle landscape with some small hills, the highest being Tornimägi, which is about 68 meters tall.
Famous Lighthouses
One of the most iconic features of Hiiumaa is its lighthouses. The Kõpu Lighthouse is one of the oldest lighthouses in the world, still guiding ships today. It's a really impressive structure that has stood for centuries. The Tahkuna lighthouse is another well-known landmark, especially beautiful at sunset. These lighthouses are not just useful; they are also important parts of the island's history and culture.
Natural Reserves and Parks
Hiiumaa has several protected areas, like the Tahkuna Nature Reserve, where you can explore untouched nature. These reserves help protect the island's unique plants and animals. There are also lovely places like Suuremõisa Park with its beautiful avenues.
Island Life and Culture
Life on Hiiumaa is often peaceful and connected to nature. You can visit charming old farmhouses, like the one in Tammela village, or explore local museums such as the Sõru museum to learn about the island's past. The island also has pretty churches, like the one in Kassari, and small chapels, such as the Malvaste chapel.
Traveling to Hiiumaa is easy, often by ferry. You can see cars boarding the ferry at Heltermaa port, ready to cross to the mainland. Once on the island, you can enjoy places like Orjaku Harbor, which has a cozy café, and explore nature trails nearby. The Tubala windmill is another charming sight, reminding visitors of the island's traditional way of life.
Hiiumaa is a wonderful place to discover, offering a mix of exciting wildlife, fascinating history, and beautiful natural landscapes.
Images for kids
See also
In Spanish: Hiiumaa para niños