List of islands of Puerto Rico facts for kids
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Puerto Rico is a Caribbean island, but it's actually part of a larger group of islands! This list will tell you all about the many islands, keys, and islets that make up the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico.
Puerto Rico has over 143 islands, keys, and islets. A key is a small, low island, often made of sand or coral. An islet is just a very small island. Most of these islands are not inhabited, meaning people don't live on them.
Only a few islands are home to people:
- The main island of Puerto Rico is the largest. It's about 3,363 square miles.
- Vieques is another island where people live. It's about 51 square miles.
- Culebra is also inhabited. It's about 10 square miles.
Mona Island is special. It's about 22 square miles. People don't live there permanently. However, staff from the Puerto Rico Department of Natural and Environmental Resources (DNER) stay there all year. They protect the island's nature. Sometimes, people can visit for camping or to enjoy nature.
Other islands are important for nature too. Caja de Muertos Island is a DNER Nature Reserve. This means it's protected to keep its natural beauty and wildlife safe. Desecheo Island is a National Wildlife Refuge. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service manages it. They work to protect the animals and plants there.
Most of the other 140 islands are not inhabited. Some of these smaller islands are privately owned. For example, Isla Palomino is rented out to a hotel. Isleta Marina, Isla de Ramos, and Isla de Lobos are also privately owned.
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Discovering Puerto Rico's Islands
Puerto Rico has many interesting islands, each with its own unique features. While we can't list all 143 here, let's look at some notable ones. These islands vary greatly in size and what they are used for. Some are popular tourist spots, while others are important for wildlife.
Islands for Fun and Nature
- Cayo Icacos: This small island near Fajardo is famous for its clear waters. It's a popular spot for snorkeling and boat trips.
- Cayo Santiago: Also known as Monkey Island, this island near Humacao is home to a colony of rhesus monkeys. Scientists study these monkeys to learn more about them.
- Cayo Aurora (Gilligan's Island): Located near Guánica, this cayo is a favorite for swimming and relaxing. It's known for its shallow, calm waters.
- Isla de Cardona: This small island near Ponce has a historic lighthouse. It's a great place for a short boat trip and offers nice views.
Important Protected Islands
- Isla Monito: This tiny island is very remote and important for seabirds. It's a protected area.
- Isla Culebrita: Near Culebra, this island has beautiful beaches and a lighthouse. It's part of a wildlife refuge.
- Isla del Frío: This island near Ponce is another example of a small, uninhabited island. It contributes to the diverse coastal environment.
Many of Puerto Rico's islands are small and rocky. They might not have sandy beaches, but they are still important. They provide homes for birds, marine life, and unique plants. These islands help keep the ocean healthy. They also protect the main island from strong waves.
See also
In Spanish: Anexo:Islas de Puerto Rico para niños
- List of communities in Puerto Rico
- List of Caribbean islands#Puerto Rico
Images for kids
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Cayo Aurora, also known as Gilligan's Island, is a popular place to visit.
