Milman Islet facts for kids
Milman Islet is a small island located in the far north of Queensland, Australia. It sits north of Shelburne Bay, about 140 kilometers (87 miles) north of Cape Grenville on the Cape York Peninsula. This islet is part of the amazing Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.
Milman Islet is a very important place because it is a nesting site for hawksbill turtles. These beautiful sea turtles come to the islet to lay their eggs, helping to ensure the survival of their species.
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Where is Milman Islet Located?
Milman Islet is found in the northern part of the Great Barrier Reef, which is the world's largest coral reef system. It is off the coast of the Cape York Peninsula, a remote and wild area of Queensland. The islet is surrounded by the clear waters of the Coral Sea.
Why is the Great Barrier Reef Important?
The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park is a huge protected area. It helps to keep the reef healthy and safe for all the marine animals that live there. This park is vital for protecting many different kinds of fish, corals, and other sea creatures, including turtles.
Hawksbill Turtles and Their Life Cycle
Hawksbill turtles are a type of sea turtle known for their beautiful, patterned shells. They are an endangered species, which means their numbers are very low. Protecting their nesting sites, like Milman Islet, is crucial for their survival.
How Do Hawksbill Turtles Reproduce?
Female hawksbill turtles travel long distances to return to the beaches where they were born. They dig nests in the sand, usually at night, and lay their eggs. After laying, they cover the eggs with sand to protect them. The warmth of the sand helps the eggs to hatch.
The Journey of Hatchlings
After about two months, tiny turtle hatchlings emerge from the eggs. They quickly make their way to the ocean, facing many dangers along the way. Only a small number of hatchlings survive to become adult turtles. This makes every nesting site, like Milman Islet, incredibly important.
