Staple Island facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Staple Island |
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Staple Island
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 Location in Northumberland
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| Location | Northumberland, England, UK |
| OS grid | NU230378 |
| Coordinates | 55°37′52″N 1°37′26″W / 55.631°N 1.624°W |
Staple Island is a small, rocky island off the coast of Northumberland, England. It's part of the Farne Islands, which are a special place for nature. These islands are known as a National Nature Reserve.
Staple Island is very important for wildlife. Many birds like Atlantic puffins, razorbills, and kittiwakes come here to have their babies. It's also home to a group of grey seals. Baby seals, called pups, are born on the island every year between September and November.
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Staple Island: A Wildlife Haven
Where is Staple Island?
Staple Island is one of the "Outer Group" of the Farne Islands. It sits to the southwest of this group. A stretch of water called Staple Sound separates it from the "Inner Group" of islands.
This sound is about 550 meters (1,800 feet) wide. The water here can have very strong currents. This is especially true during spring tides, which are when the tides are at their strongest.
The southern side of Staple Island has tall, straight cliffs. There are also some rocks that look like broken pillars. These are known as "The Pinnacles." From the southwest, a dangerous line of rocks called "Gun Reef" stretches out. These rocks start to show when the tide goes out halfway.
Amazing Wildlife
Even though no people live on Staple Island, it's a busy place for animals. It's a key breeding ground for many types of seabirds. These birds find safe spots on the cliffs and rocks to build their nests.
The island's waters are also important for the grey seals. They use the quiet beaches and rocky areas to give birth to their pups. It's a safe nursery for the young seals to grow.
Who Looks After the Island?
No one lives on Staple Island permanently. However, special boats are allowed to bring visitors to the island. The National Trust owns and manages Staple Island.
The National Trust is a charity that protects important places in England. They have bird wardens who live on the island for part of the year. These wardens help protect the birds and their nests. They also make sure visitors don't disturb the wildlife.
A Look Back in Time
Staple Island has a bit of history, even though it's uninhabited now. It has links to the early monks from nearby Lindisfarne.
A lighthouse was built on Staple Island in 1778. But strong winds blew it down just six years later in 1784. A new lighthouse was built, either in the same spot or on nearby Brownsman's Island. However, big waves knocked that one down in 1800.
Images for kids
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A Black-legged kittiwake (Rissa tridactyla) at its nest on Staple Island.
