Middleholm facts for kids
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| Geography | |
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| Location | Jack Sound |
| Area | 0.087 km2 (0.034 sq mi) |
| Administration | |
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Wales
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| County | Pembrokeshire |
| Community | Marloes and St Brides |
Middleholm, also known as Midland Isle, is a small island located off the southwest coast of Pembrokeshire in Wales. It lies between the larger island of Skomer and the mainland. The island is part of the Marloes and St Brides community. It is roughly circular, about 1210 feet (369 meters) across, and covers an area of about 21.5 acres (8.7 hectares). A narrow channel called Jack Sound separates it from the mainland.
History of Middleholm
The name Middleholm was first written down in 1325. Back then, during the time of King Edward III, people were paid to catch rabbits on the island. This shows that the island has been used by humans for a very long time.
There are even signs of old stone walls from the Iron Age on Middleholm. People might have used the island to let their animals graze during the summer, even though there was no natural fresh water.
In 1966, a disease called myxomatosis killed off the rabbit population on the island. Since then, no animals have grazed there. The name Midland Isle has also been used for a long time, at least since 1578. Today, modern maps from the Ordnance Survey use the name Midland Isle.
Geology of Middleholm
The island of Middleholm is mostly made up of volcanic rocks. These rocks formed a very long time ago, during a period called the Silurian period, specifically the Aeronian age. These rocks are part of what scientists call the Skomer Volcanic Group.
Wildlife on Middleholm
Middleholm is a special place for many animals and plants. It is well-known for its seabirds. These birds spend most of their lives at sea but come to the island to nest. Some of the seabirds you might find here include Manx shearwaters and Atlantic puffins.
The island also has interesting plants. Some of the plants that grow there are red fescue, sea beet, and common tree-mallow.
Ownership and Access
The National Trust owns and manages Middleholm island. The National Trust is a charity that protects important places in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The island is not open to the public, which helps protect its wildlife and natural environment.
