Outer Island (Connecticut) facts for kids
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Outer Island is a small island, about 5 acres in size, located in Long Island Sound. It's part of a group of islands called the Thimble Islands. These islands are found just south of Stony Creek, which is a small village near Branford, Connecticut. Outer Island is the farthest south and most distant island in this group.
The island is a special place for nature. It's one of ten areas that make up the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge. This refuge helps protect many different kinds of marine (ocean) and avian (bird) wildlife.
Outer Island is also used for learning. Southern Connecticut State University works with the island to use it as an ecological laboratory. This means scientists and students can study nature there. It's also an outdoor classroom for school groups from New Haven.
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What is Outer Island?
Outer Island is a tiny piece of land surrounded by water. It measures about 5 acres, which is roughly the size of five football fields. It's located in Long Island Sound, a large body of water between Connecticut and Long Island, New York.
Where is Outer Island Located?
Outer Island is part of a chain of islands known as the Thimble Islands. These islands are found off the coast of Stony Creek. Stony Creek is a small community that belongs to the town of Branford, Connecticut. Outer Island is the southernmost island in the Thimble Islands group. This makes it the most remote, or farthest away, island in the chain.
Why is Outer Island Important?
Outer Island plays a big role in protecting nature. It's part of the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge. A "wildlife refuge" is a special area set aside to protect wild animals and their homes. The island provides a safe place for many different types of marine animals and birds to live and raise their young.
Who Manages Outer Island?
The United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) is in charge of Outer Island. This government agency works to protect wildlife and their habitats. The island was given to the USFWS in 1995 by a person named Elizabeth Hird.
The island is also looked after through a partnership with Southern Connecticut State University. This university uses Outer Island as a natural ecological laboratory. This means students and teachers can study the environment and wildlife directly on the island. It also serves as an outdoor classroom for school groups, especially from the city of New Haven.
Visiting Outer Island
People can visit Outer Island! There's a small public dock where boats can tie up. There's also a beaching area on the side of the island that is more sheltered from the wind.
What Can You Do on Outer Island?
When you visit, you'll find a small "interpretive center." This center has information and displays that help you learn about the island's wildlife and history. Volunteers are usually there during the summer to answer questions and help visitors.
Students also help take care of the island. They work on projects to improve the island's environment. These projects are often done with the help of the Friends of Outer Island organization and the National Fish and Wildlife Service.
