Stockinish Island facts for kids
| Gaelic name | Eilean Stocainis |
|---|---|
| OS grid reference | NG136903 |
| Coordinates | 57°49′N 6°49′W / 57.81°N 6.82°W |
| Physical geography | |
| Island group | Lewis and Harris |
| Area | 49 hectares (0.19 sq mi) |
| Area rank | 205= |
| Highest elevation | 44 metres (144 ft) |
| Administration | |
| Sovereign state | United Kingdom |
| Country | Scotland |
| Council area | Na h-Eileanan Siar |
| Demographics | |
| Population | 0 |
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Stockinish Island (Scottish Gaelic: Eilean Stocainis) is a small island near Harris in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland. No one lives on the island today.
Contents
Island Location and Features
Stockinish Island is located on the edge of the Minch, which is a sea channel. It sits at the entrance of Loch Stockinish, southeast of Harris. Even though no people live there, the island is sometimes used for grazing animals.
The island covers an area of about 49 hectares (which is like 121 acres). Its highest point reaches 44 meters (about 144 feet) above sea level.
Loch an t-Sàile: A Unique Saltwater Lake
In the middle of Stockinish Island, there is a salty lake called Loch an t-Sàile. Its name means "loch of the brine." This lake was created by people building a dam. It might have been used long ago to trap fish. Today, it is used as a pond for lobsters.
Island's Rocky Foundation
The rocks that make up Stockinish Island are very old. They are part of what is called Lewisian gneiss. This type of rock is found in the Northwest Highlands of Scotland.
Waterways Around the Island
Stockinish Island has two narrow channels of water, which are called "kyles." Caolas Beag is to the northeast, and Caolas Mòr is to the southwest. These channels help protect Stockinish Loch, where boats can find a pier. Yachts often use this pier during the summer months.
Nearby Small Islands and Reefs
To the southwest of Stockinish Island, you can find a smaller island called Eilean Leasait. Just to the south is Stac nam Faoileag, which means "seagull stack." There are also several reefs in the water to the south. These reefs can be seen above the water when the tide is low.
