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McConnell River facts for kids

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McConnell River
Country Canada
Territory Nunavut
Physical characteristics
River mouth Northwestern Hudson Bay
Designated: 24 May 1982
Reference #: 248

The McConnell River is a cool river located in a special part of northern Canada called the Kivalliq Region in Nunavut. It flows into a huge body of water called Hudson Bay. This river is super important because it gives its name to the McConnell River Migratory Bird Sanctuary, which is a safe home for many birds.

Discovering the McConnell River

The McConnell River is a natural waterway found in the vast lands of Nunavut, Canada's largest and newest territory. Rivers like the McConnell are vital for the environment. They provide fresh water and create homes for many different kinds of plants and animals.

Where is the McConnell River?

The McConnell River is located in the Kivalliq Region of Nunavut. This area is in the central part of Nunavut, along the western shore of Hudson Bay. The river flows eastward across the land. Finally, it empties its waters into the northwestern part of Hudson Bay. Hudson Bay is a very large saltwater bay in northeastern Canada.

A Special Home for Birds

The McConnell River is famous for being the namesake of the McConnell River Migratory Bird Sanctuary. A sanctuary is a protected area where animals can live safely. This particular sanctuary is a very important place for birds that travel long distances.

Many birds come here to nest and raise their young. Two of the most common birds you can find at the McConnell River are the snow geese and the Canada geese. These birds travel thousands of kilometers each year. They come to the sanctuary for its safe environment and plenty of food.

Why is it a Ramsar Site?

The McConnell River area is also recognized as a Ramsar site. A Ramsar site is a wetland of international importance. It is named after the city of Ramsar in Iran, where the Ramsar Convention was signed. This international agreement works to protect important wetlands around the world.

The McConnell River became a Ramsar site on May 24, 1982. This means that the area's unique wetlands are recognized globally. It also means they are protected for their importance to wildlife, especially for the many migratory birds that depend on them. Protecting these wetlands helps make sure that birds like the snow geese and Canada geese will always have a safe place to live and raise their families.

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