Lower Twin Island facts for kids

Lower Twin Island is a small island located in the Ohio River. You can find it near the city of Wheeling, in West Virginia. This island is often called a "bar island" because it's mostly made of sand and gravel that has built up over time.

Lower Twin Island has a partner island called Upper Twin Island. Both islands are found northwest of a part of Wheeling called Warwood. These islands are special because they are part of a larger protected area. This area is known as the Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge.

Discovering Lower Twin Island

Lower Twin Island is a fascinating natural spot. It's one of many islands found along the Ohio River. These islands are formed by the river's flow. Over many years, the river carries sand, silt, and gravel. These materials then settle and build up in certain spots, creating islands.

The island's location in the Ohio River makes it unique. It's not a big, rocky island. Instead, it's a low-lying landform. Its shape and size can even change a little over time. This happens as the river's currents move sand and sediment around.

What is a River Island?

A river island is a piece of land completely surrounded by river water. Unlike ocean islands, river islands are formed by the river itself. They can be temporary or permanent. Some are small sandbars that appear when water levels are low. Others are larger and more stable.

These islands often play an important role in the river's ecosystem. They can slow down water flow. They also provide unique habitats for plants and animals. The soil on river islands is usually very rich. This helps different kinds of plants grow there.

The Ohio River: A Lifeline

The Ohio River is a major waterway in the eastern United States. It flows for about 981 miles (1,579 kilometers). It starts in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and joins the Mississippi River in Cairo, Illinois. The river is very important for transportation and trade.

Beyond its economic uses, the Ohio River is a vital natural resource. It supports many types of fish, birds, and other wildlife. The river's banks and islands, like Lower Twin Island, are crucial habitats. They provide places for animals to live, feed, and raise their young.

Protecting Nature: The Wildlife Refuge

Lower Twin Island is part of the Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge. This refuge was created to protect the natural habitats along the Ohio River. It includes a series of islands and some mainland areas. The refuge helps preserve the diverse wildlife of the region.

The refuge manages these islands to keep them healthy. They work to protect native plants and animals. This includes birds, fish, and other creatures. The goal is to ensure these species have safe places to live and thrive.

Why are Refuges Important?

National Wildlife Refuges are special places. They are managed by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. Their main purpose is to conserve wildlife and their habitats. They also offer opportunities for people to enjoy nature. This can include activities like birdwatching or fishing.

Refuges help protect endangered species. They also maintain healthy populations of common animals. By setting aside these areas, we ensure that future generations can experience nature. They also help keep our ecosystems balanced and healthy.

What Animals Live Here?

While Lower Twin Island itself is small, the larger Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge is home to many animals. You might see various types of birds. These include waterfowl like ducks and geese. Many migratory birds also use the refuge as a resting spot during their long journeys.

Other animals found in the refuge include white-tailed deer, raccoons, and river otters. The river waters are full of different fish species. The refuge's islands and riverbanks provide food, shelter, and nesting sites for all these creatures.