Smith Lake (Alaska) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Smith Lake |
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Ice skater on Smith Lake, Fairbanks, Alaska. October 2020.
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 Smith Lake
Location in Alaska
Smith Lake
Location in North America
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| Location | Fairbanks, Alaska |
| Coordinates | 64°51′57″N 147°51′50″W / 64.8658°N 147.8639°W |
| Type | lake |
| Max. length | 980 feet (300 m) |
| Max. width | 980 feet (300 m) |
Smith Lake is a cool lake located in Fairbanks, Alaska. It sits right on the campus of the University of Alaska Fairbanks. In the Athabascan language, it's called Tr'exwghodegi Troth Yeddha' Bena.
This lake has a unique triangular shape. It's about 300 meters (or 980 feet) long and 300 meters (980 feet) wide. The university uses the lake to study nature and water systems.
Amazing Wildlife at Smith Lake
Smith Lake is a fantastic spot to see different kinds of animals, especially birds! Many bird species visit or live near the lake. It's like a natural bird-watching park.
You might spot these birds at Smith Lake:
- Pacific loons, known for their sleek look.
- Ring-necked ducks, with a subtle ring on their neck.
- Buffleheads, small ducks with big heads.
- American wigeons, which have a green patch on their heads.
- Northern pintails, recognized by their long tail feathers.
- Northern shovelers, with their large, shovel-shaped bills.
- Green-winged teals, tiny ducks with bright green wing patches.
- Red-necked grebes, elegant birds with long necks.
- Horned grebes, which have cool yellow "horns" in breeding season.
- Bonaparte's gulls, small gulls with dark heads.
- Wilson's snipes, masters of camouflage.
- Lesser yellowlegs, wading birds with bright yellow legs.
- Long-billed dowitchers, known for their long bills.
- Red-necked phalaropes, unique birds that spin on water.
- Pectoral sandpipers, with a distinct chest pattern.
- Bohemian waxwings, beautiful birds with a crest.
Fun Activities at Smith Lake
When winter arrives and Smith Lake freezes over, it becomes a popular place for outdoor fun. The smooth, frozen surface is perfect for exciting activities.
- Ice Skating: Many people enjoy gliding across the ice on skates. It's a great way to get exercise and have fun.
- Cross-Country Skiing: Skiers can explore the snowy areas around the lake. This sport is a wonderful way to enjoy the winter scenery.
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Smith Lake (Alaska) Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.