Seymour Range facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Seymour Range |
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View of the Seymour Range from Pacheena Reserve 1
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| Dimensions | |
| Area | 888 km2 (343 sq mi) |
| Geography | |
The Seymour Range is marked 15 on map.
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| Country | Canada |
| State/Province | British Columbia |
| Parent range | Vancouver Island Ranges |
The Seymour Range is a group of mountains and hills located on the southern part of Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. These mountains are found between the valley of Cowichan Lake and the San Juan River. It covers an area of 888 square kilometers. The Seymour Range is part of a larger group of mountains called the Vancouver Island Ranges, which are themselves part of the Insular Mountains.
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What is the Seymour Range?
The Seymour Range is not a single mountain but a collection of many mountains and hills. It's like a family of peaks that rise from the land. These mountains are considered "low" compared to some of the world's giant peaks, but they are still an important part of the landscape on Vancouver Island.
Where is it Located?
The Seymour Range is situated on the southern end of Vancouver Island. This island is off the west coast of British Columbia, Canada. The range acts as a natural barrier between two important valleys: the Cowichan Lake valley to the north and the San Juan River valley to the south.
Nearby Communities
The area around the Seymour Range is home to various communities. For example, the Pacheedaht First Nation has reserves near the San Juan River, close to these mountains. Their traditional territory includes parts of this beautiful natural area.
Part of a Bigger Picture
The Seymour Range is a smaller part of a much larger mountain system.
The Vancouver Island Ranges
The Seymour Range belongs to the Vancouver Island Ranges. These are the main mountain chain that runs along the length of Vancouver Island. They are known for their rugged beauty, dense forests, and many lakes and rivers.
The Insular Mountains
Even bigger than the Vancouver Island Ranges are the Insular Mountains. This large mountain system includes all the mountains on Vancouver Island and the Haida Gwaii islands (also known as the Queen Charlotte Islands). These mountains were formed by powerful forces deep within the Earth over millions of years.
How Mountains are Formed
Mountains like those in the Seymour Range are usually formed when large pieces of the Earth's outer layer, called tectonic plates, push against each other. This slow but powerful collision can cause the land to fold, crack, and lift upwards, creating peaks and valleys. Over time, wind, water, and ice also shape these mountains, carving out their unique features.
Nature and Environment
The Seymour Range, like much of Vancouver Island, is covered in thick forests. These forests are part of the temperate rainforest biome, which means they get a lot of rain and have tall, ancient trees.
Wildlife in the Area
These mountains and forests provide a home for many different animals. You might find black bears, cougars, deer, and various types of birds. The rivers flowing from these mountains, like the San Juan River, are also important for fish, including different kinds of salmon.
Importance of Rivers
The San Juan River, which flows near the Seymour Range, is a vital waterway. Rivers like this carry water from the mountains down to the ocean. They are important for the local ecosystem, providing water for plants and animals, and supporting fish populations.
