Samuel Island facts for kids
Geography | |
---|---|
Location | Strait of Georgia |
Coordinates | 48°49′26″N 123°12′55″W / 48.82389°N 123.21528°W |
Archipelago | Gulf Islands |
Highest elevation | 55 m (180 ft) |
Administration | |
Province | British Columbia |
Samuel Island is a small, beautiful island located in the Pacific Ocean, off the coast of British Columbia, Canada. It's part of a group of islands called the Gulf Islands. These islands are known for their stunning natural beauty, calm waters, and amazing wildlife. Samuel Island is a quiet place, perfect for exploring nature and enjoying the peaceful island life.
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Samuel Island: A Pacific Gem
Samuel Island is a tiny piece of land in the Strait of Georgia. This strait is a large body of water between Vancouver Island and the mainland of British Columbia. The island is quite small, rising only about 55 meters (180 feet) above the sea. It's a peaceful spot, often visited by people looking for a quiet escape.
Where is Samuel Island?
Samuel Island is located in the southern part of the Gulf Islands. It sits southeast of a larger island called Mayne Island. To find it on a map, you would look for the coast of British Columbia, which is a province on the west side of Canada. The island's exact location is 48 degrees, 49 minutes, 26 seconds North and 123 degrees, 12 minutes, 55 seconds West.
What Makes Gulf Islands Special?
The Gulf Islands are a group of islands in the Strait of Georgia. They are famous for their mild climate, which means they don't get too hot or too cold. This makes them a great home for many different plants and animals. The islands were formed thousands of years ago by glaciers. These giant ice sheets carved out the land, creating the unique shapes of the islands and the channels between them.
The Gulf Islands are a popular spot for outdoor activities. People enjoy kayaking, sailing, hiking, and wildlife watching here. Each island has its own special charm, from busy towns to quiet, untouched natural areas.
Nature on Samuel Island
Even though Samuel Island is small, it's home to a variety of plants and animals. The island's natural environment is typical of the Gulf Islands. It has lush forests and rocky shorelines. Protecting this natural beauty is very important.
Plants and Trees
The forests on Samuel Island are mostly made up of Douglas fir trees. You might also see Arbutus trees, which have unique reddish bark that peels off. Other common trees include Western redcedar and Grand fir. The ground is covered with ferns, mosses, and wildflowers, especially in spring. These plants provide food and shelter for many animals.
Animals and Wildlife
Samuel Island is a great place to spot wildlife. Many types of birds live here or visit during migration. You might see bald eagles soaring overhead or great blue herons fishing along the shore. Smaller birds like chickadees and nuthatches are common in the forests.
In the waters around the island, you might spot harbor seals resting on rocks. Sometimes, orca whales or sea lions swim through the strait. On land, small mammals like rabbits and deer can sometimes be seen. The island's quiet nature helps these animals thrive.
Exploring the Island
Samuel Island is mostly undeveloped, which means it has very few buildings or roads. This makes it an ideal place for nature lovers. Visitors can explore the island's trails and enjoy its peaceful atmosphere. It's a great spot for a day trip or a quiet camping adventure.
Remember to respect the natural environment when visiting. Stay on marked trails and avoid disturbing wildlife. This helps keep the island beautiful for everyone.
Quick Facts About Samuel Island
- Location: Part of the Gulf Islands in British Columbia, Canada.
- Size: A small island, with an elevation of about 55 meters (180 feet).
- Environment: Known for its natural beauty, forests, and wildlife.
- Activities: Ideal for hiking, wildlife watching, and enjoying nature.
- Neighbors: Located southeast of Mayne Island.