Kapunda Island Conservation Park facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Kapunda Island Conservation Park Loxton, South Australia
IUCN Category III (Natural Monument)
Kapunda Island Conservation Park Location in South Australia
Nearest town or city	Loxton
Established	4 July 1968 (1968-07-04)
Area	1 hectare (2.5 acres)
Managing authorities	Department for Environment and Water
See also	Protected areas of South Australia

Kapunda Island Conservation Park is a special place in South Australia. It's a protected area located on an island in the Murray River. This park helps keep nature safe and sound.

The island is found near the town of Loxton in a region called the Riverland. It's a small but important spot for local wildlife.

Discover Kapunda Island Conservation Park

Kapunda Island Conservation Park is a small island in the Murray River. It's located about 1 kilometer (less than a mile) north-west of the town of Loxton. This makes it easy to find if you're visiting the area.

Why is Kapunda Island Protected?

This island was first set aside to protect animals on 4 July 1968. It was officially named a "conservation park" in 1972. This means it's a place where nature is looked after and kept safe.

The park covers about 1 hectare, which is roughly the size of two football fields. Even though it's small, it plays a big role in protecting the environment.

What's Kapunda Island Like?

In 1980, experts described Kapunda Island as a beautiful spot. It's a sandy island in the Murray River.

The island has tall Eucalyptus camaldulensis trees, also known as River Red Gums. These trees grow over areas of reeds called Phragmites australis. You might also find plants like Muehlenbeckia cunninghamii here.

This mix of plants creates a perfect home for different animals.

A Safe Place for Waterbirds

One of the main reasons Kapunda Island is protected is to offer a safe place for waterbirds. During certain times of the year, it can be a quiet refuge for them. This helps birds rest and raise their young without being disturbed.

It's one of only a few protected islands along the South Australian part of the Murray River. This makes it extra special for birds and other wildlife.

How is the Park Managed?

Kapunda Island Conservation Park is managed by the Department for Environment and Water (South Australia). It works together with other nearby parks, like Media Island Conservation Park, Rilli Island Conservation Park, and the larger Murray River National Park.

This teamwork helps make sure all these natural areas are well cared for. It also means they can protect more wildlife across the region.

The park is recognized internationally as an IUCN Category III protected area. This means it's important for protecting natural features.