Shanks Islands facts for kids
 Shanks Islands
Location in Tasmania
Location off the south western coast of Tasmania
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| Geography | |
|---|---|
| Location | South western Tasmania |
| Coordinates | 43°20′24″S 145°57′00″E / 43.34000°S 145.95000°E |
| Archipelago | Swainson Islands Group |
| Adjacent bodies of water | |
| Total islands | 5 |
| Area | 2.72 ha (6.7 acres) |
| Administration | |
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Australia
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| State | Tasmania |
| Region | South West |
| Demographics | |
| Population | Unpopulated |
The Shanks Islands are a group of five small, rocky islands located off the south-western coast of Tasmania, Australia. These islands are found near where the Port Davey river meets the huge Southern Ocean.
Together, the Shanks Islands cover an area of about 2.72 hectares. They are part of a larger group of islands called the Swainson Islands Group. These special islands are also part of the Southwest National Park and the amazing Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Site. This means they are protected because of their unique natural beauty and importance.
Amazing Island Animals
The Shanks Islands are a very important place for birds. They are part of the Port Davey Islands Important Bird Area. This area has been identified by BirdLife International as a key spot for seabirds to breed and raise their young.
Seabirds and Waders
Many different types of seabirds and waders (birds that walk in shallow water) come to these islands to nest. Here are some of the birds that have been recorded breeding here:
- The little penguin, which is the smallest type of penguin.
- The short-tailed shearwater, with about 8,700 pairs nesting on the islands.
- The fairy prion, with around 5,000 pairs making their homes here.
- The silver gull, a common type of seagull.
- The sooty oystercatcher, a dark bird with a bright orange beak.
- The Caspian tern, a large tern known for its loud calls.
These islands provide a safe home for these birds to lay their eggs and raise their chicks.
