Rabbit Island (Michigan) facts for kids
 Rabbit Island
Location in Michigan
Rabbit Island (Michigan)
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| Geography | |
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| Location | Lake Superior |
| Coordinates | 47°04′23″N 88°16′19″W / 47.07306°N 88.27194°W |
| Area | 0.14 sq mi (0.36 km2) |
| Highest elevation | 602 ft (183.5 m) |
| Administration | |
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United States
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| State | Michigan |
| County | Houghton |
| Township | Torch Lake Township |
| Demographics | |
| Population | 0 (permanent) |
Rabbit Island is a small island in Lake Superior. It is also known as Traverse Island. This island is about 91 acres in size. It is located about 3.5 miles (5.6 km) east of Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula. The island is mostly empty of people. It is kept safe by a special agreement called a conservation easement. This agreement stops new buildings from being built there. Rabbit Island is also home to a special program called the Rabbit Island Residency. This program invites artists to live and work on the island during the summer.
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About Rabbit Island
Rabbit Island is a unique place in Lake Superior. It is part of Michigan, specifically in Houghton County. The island is quite small, covering about 0.14 square miles. It rises to an elevation of 602 feet (183 meters) above sea level. The island is not home to any permanent residents. Its quiet location makes it a peaceful spot in the vast lake.
A Protected Place
Rabbit Island is special because it is protected. A "conservation easement" is a legal agreement. It means the land will stay natural forever. This agreement stops anyone from building houses or other structures on the island. It helps keep the island wild and untouched. This protection is important for the plants and animals that live there. It also preserves the natural beauty of the island.
Home for Artists
One of the most interesting things about Rabbit Island is its artist residency program. This program invites artists from all over the world. They come to live and create art on the island. The artists stay there during the summer months. It is a chance for them to connect with nature. They can find inspiration in the island's quiet environment.
What Do Artists Do?
Artists who come to Rabbit Island work on different projects. They might paint, sculpt, write, or create music. The island offers a unique space for creativity. It helps artists think about nature and their place in the world. The program encourages art that respects the environment. It also helps people learn about conservation. The artists often share their work with others after their time on the island.
Nature on the Island
Even though it is small, Rabbit Island is full of nature. As an uninhabited island, it provides a safe home. Many types of plants and animals can thrive there. The island's forests and shores offer different habitats. Birds, small mammals, and various plant species live on the island. The conservation easement helps protect these natural habitats. It ensures the island's ecosystem remains healthy.
