St. Matthew Island, located in the Bering Sea, is a remote and uninhabited island in the state of Alaska. It is part of the Bering Sea unit of the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge and is known for its unique and fragile ecosystem. The island has a total area of approximately 137 square miles (355 square kilometers) and is characterized by its rugged terrain, with steep cliffs, rocky shores, and rolling hills.
Geography and Climate
St. Matthew Island is situated about 200 miles (322 kilometers) northwest of the coast of Alaska, and its geography is shaped by its location in the Bering Sea. The island is volcanic in origin and is composed of basaltic rock, with a thin layer of soil and vegetation. The climate on the island is cold and wet, with strong winds and limited sunlight during the winter months. The average temperature in January, the coldest month, is around 14°F (-10°C), while the average temperature in July, the warmest month, is around 43°F (6°C).
Wildlife and Vegetation
Despite its harsh climate, St. Matthew Island is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including seabirds, marine mammals, and terrestrial species. The island is an important breeding ground for seabirds such as the common eider, black guillemot, and thick-billed murre. Marine mammals, including walruses, seals, and sea lions, can be found in the surrounding waters. The island’s vegetation is limited, but it includes species such as arctic grasses, low-growing shrubs, and lichens.
| Species | Population |
|---|---|
| Common Eider | 10,000-20,000 breeding pairs |
| Black Guillemot | 5,000-10,000 breeding pairs |
| Thick-billed Murre | 100,000-200,000 breeding pairs |
Human History and Exploration
St. Matthew Island has a limited human history, with the first recorded visit by Europeans in 1762 by the Russian explorer Mikhail Gvozdev. The island was later visited by American explorers, including Charles Francis Hall in 1869. In the early 20th century, the island was used as a stopping point for hunters and trappers, but it has been largely uninhabited since the 1960s.
Scientific Research and Conservation
Today, St. Matthew Island is an important location for scientific research and conservation efforts. The island is part of the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge, which is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Researchers and conservationists study the island’s unique ecosystem, including its wildlife, vegetation, and geology. The island is also an important location for monitoring climate change and its impacts on Arctic ecosystems.
- Research on seabird populations and breeding habits
- Studies on marine mammal migration patterns and habitat use
- Monitoring of climate change impacts on vegetation and soil quality
What is the main purpose of the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge?
+The main purpose of the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge is to conserve and manage the marine and terrestrial ecosystems of the refuge, including the wildlife and vegetation, for the benefit of present and future generations.
What are some of the challenges facing conservation efforts on St. Matthew Island?
+Some of the challenges facing conservation efforts on St. Matthew Island include the remote location of the island, the harsh climate, and the limited resources available for research and conservation efforts. Additionally, the island is vulnerable to climate change, which can impact the ecosystem and the wildlife that inhabits it.
In conclusion, St. Matthew Island is a unique and fascinating location that offers insights into the natural world and the impacts of human activity on the environment. Through continued research and conservation efforts, we can work to protect this important ecosystem and preserve its natural beauty for future generations.
