Little Tybee Island facts for kids
 Little Tybee Island
Location in Georgia (U.S. state)
Little Tybee Island
Location in North Atlantic
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| Geography | |
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| Location | North Atlantic |
| Coordinates | 31°58′31″N 80°53′29″W / 31.97528°N 80.89139°W |
| Administration | |
| County | Chatham County, Georgia |
Little Tybee Island is a special, undeveloped island in Georgia, USA. It is located just south of the more famous Tybee Island, Georgia. This island is much larger than it looks, covering about 6,780 acres (about 27.4 square kilometers). A big part of this area is made up of marshlands. It is a very important place for nature and wildlife.
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Discovering Little Tybee Island
Little Tybee Island is a barrier island off the coast of Georgia (U.S. state). Barrier islands are long, narrow islands that protect the mainland from ocean storms. This island is not developed, meaning there are no roads, shops, or houses. It is a wild and natural place.
Where is Little Tybee Island?
Little Tybee Island is found in the Atlantic Ocean, specifically off the coast of Chatham County, Georgia. It sits at the mouth of the Savannah River. The island is only accessible by boat. This helps keep it wild and untouched.
How Big is Little Tybee Island?
The island covers a large area of 6,780 acres. This includes both dry land and vast marsh areas. Marshes are wetlands that are often flooded by tides. They are very important habitats for many animals and plants. The island's size makes it a significant natural reserve.
Amazing Wildlife on the Island
Little Tybee Island is a protected area. It is home to many different kinds of wildlife. Many birds, especially shorebirds, use the island for nesting and feeding.
Birds and Endangered Species
The island is a critical habitat for several endangered species of birds. An endangered species is a type of animal or plant that is at risk of disappearing forever. These birds need quiet, undisturbed places to survive. Some of the birds you might find here include the least tern, piping plover, and American oystercatcher. Protecting their nesting sites is very important.
Other Animals
Besides birds, the island's marshes and beaches support other wildlife. You might see raccoons, deer, and various reptiles. The waters around the island are also home to fish and crabs. It is a thriving ecosystem where many creatures live together.
A Special Place in History
Little Tybee Island has played a small but interesting role in history. Its unique location made it suitable for a major international event.
The 1996 Summer Olympics
In 1996, the city of Atlanta, Georgia hosted the 1996 Summer Olympics. While most events were in Atlanta, some were held elsewhere. The yachting events, which involve sailing races, took place off the coast of Little Tybee Island. These races were held in Wassaw Sound, a body of water near the island. It was a big moment for the area to be part of such a global event.
Visiting Little Tybee Island
Since Little Tybee Island is undeveloped, visiting it is a unique experience. There are no facilities, so visitors must be prepared.
What to Do on the Island
People visit Little Tybee Island for activities like kayaking, fishing, and birdwatching. It is a great place to explore nature. Visitors should always practice Leave No Trace principles. This means taking all trash with you and leaving the island as you found it. This helps protect the delicate environment.
Protecting the Island
Because the island is so important for wildlife, it is protected. This means there are rules to follow to keep it safe for animals. For example, some areas might be closed during bird nesting season. This helps ensure that the endangered birds can raise their young without being disturbed.
