Wreck Island Natural Area Preserve facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Wreck Island Natural Area Preserve |
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 Wreck Island Natural Area Preserve
Location in Virginia
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| Location | Northampton County, Virginia |
| Area | 1,380 acres (5.6 km2) |
| Governing body | Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation |
Wreck Island Natural Area Preserve is a special place in Virginia, covering about 1,380 acres (which is like 5.6 square kilometers). It's located in Northampton County and is one of the many Virginia Barrier Islands along Virginia's coast. These islands act like natural shields, protecting the mainland from ocean storms.
Contents
Discovering Wreck Island Preserve
What Makes Wreck Island Special?
This preserve is home to many different kinds of natural areas. You can find peaceful marshes, sandy beaches, open grasslands, tall dunes, and areas with lots of shrubs. These different habitats provide homes for many plants and animals.
Wreck Island is also very important for birds. It's part of a larger area called the "Barrier Island/Lagoon System Important Bird Area" by the National Audubon Society. This means it's a crucial spot for many bird species.
A Safe Place for Baby Birds
Wreck Island is especially important as a nursery for nesting bird colonies. Many birds come here to lay their eggs and raise their young. The island gives them a safe place away from predators and disturbances.
How the Island Changes
Wreck Island is slowly moving towards the mainland over time. This is a natural process for barrier islands. In the past, the island had large mounds made of shells, like small hills. However, a big storm called Hurricane Isabel destroyed these shell mounds.
Who Takes Care of the Preserve?
The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation owns and takes care of Wreck Island Natural Area Preserve. They work to protect its natural beauty and the animals that live there.
Visiting Wreck Island
You can visit Wreck Island Natural Area Preserve during certain times of the year. However, access is limited between mid-April and early September. This is to protect the nesting birds and their young during their most important breeding season.
Getting There
The only way to reach Wreck Island is by boat. There are no roads or bridges connecting it to the mainland. This helps keep the island wild and protected.
