Pélicans Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Saint-Lawrence River in southwestern Quebec, Canada. The island and surrounding waters are home to the largest concentration of migratory waterfowl in North America. The island is also an Important Bird Area and contains a large variety of natural resources, including forests, wetlands, and miombo woodlands.
Contents
History
Pélicans Island was first visited by Europeans in the early 16th century and was named after a French ship that sailed into the Saint Lawrence River in 1534. The island became a hunting ground for the Mi’kmaq people, who used it to trap beaver, otter, and fur-bearing animals. In 1608, Jacques Cartier explored Pélicans Island while searching for a route to Asia via North America. He named the island Île aux Pélicans, or “Island of the Penguins”. In 1669, Jacques-François de La Gravière explored and mapped Pélicans Island. The island was also visited by Samuel De Champlain in 1608 and Jean Belcourt in 1624.
In 1792, during the French Revolution, Louis Hautecoeur led a military expedition to capture Quebec from the British. After a three-month siege, Hautecoeur forced the surrender of the British garrison on Pélicans Island. The island remained in French hands until 1813 when it was ceded to the United States as part of the Treaty of Ghent. In 1825, Alexander Macomb created Fort Saint-Joseph on Pélicans Island as part of his defense strategy for Upper Canada.
In 1840, Samuel Hearne made the first European ascent of Mount Saint-Antoine, the highest peak on Pélicans Island.
In 1867, Canada purchased Pélicans Island from France for $68,000. The island was officially renamed Pélicans Island National Park in 1899.
Geography
Pélicans Island is located in southwestern Quebec, approximately 20 miles (32 km) south of Montreal and 60 miles (96 km) west of Quebec City. The island is approximately 8 square miles (21 km2), and its highest point, Mount Saint-Antoine, rises to 1,388 feet (424 m).
The coastlines are rugged with deep bays and inlets. The interior is mostly hilly countryside covered with deciduous forest. There are several lakes on the island.
Ecosystem
Pélicans Island is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including more than 100 species of birds, 20 kinds of mammals, and 10 kinds of reptiles. The island is also a key breeding ground for several rare Canadian bird species.
Pélicans Island National Park offers hiking trails that lead throughout the forested interior. There are also several lakes with kayaking and sailing available. accessible by car from Montreal or Quebec City.
Population
There is no permanent population on Pélicans Island. However, the park is open to the public seasonally, and during summer months there are usually a few staff members on duty to provide information and logistical support.
Economy
Pélicans Island National Park is a popular tourist destination, and the few businesses that operate there rely mainly on tourism.
Climate
The climate is temperate maritime, with mild winters and hot, humid summers.
Culture and Religion
Pélicans Island National Park is home to the only Francophone chapel in Quebec. The chapel, built in 1895, is used mainly for religious ceremonies and community meetings.
Languages
The predominant language on Pélicans Island is French, although there are a few English speakers.
Education
There are no schools on Pélicans Island, but the National Park provides educational materials and resources to visitors.
Politics
Pélicans Island is part of the Les Collines–de-la-Rivière-du-Loup Regional County Municipality.
Government Services
The National Park is administered by the Institut national de la recherche scientifique (INRS), an agency of the Québec Ministry of Research and Development.
Tourism
Pélicans Island National Park is popular for hiking, birdwatching, and kayaking.
Hotels and Resorts List
Accommodation on Pélicans Island is limited to a few basic camping spots and a handful of guesthouses that offer simple lodging. There are no restaurants or other businesses catering to tourists, so visitors must bring their own food and drinks.
Attractions
The attractions on Pélicans Island include the chapel, hiking trails, and kayaking routes.
Activities
Some activities that visitors can enjoy on Pélicans Island include hiking, birdwatching, kayaking, and picnicking.
Transport
There is no public transportation on or off Pélicans Island.
Cuisine
Pélicans Island is known for its fresh seafood, such as oysters and scallops.
Conclusion
Pélicans Island is a place where you can find peace and serenity. Nestled off the coast of Trinidad and Tobago, the island is known for its white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. Surrounded by reefs, the island is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, and scuba diving. The best time to visit Pélicans Island is during the winter when the weather is cooler and the beaches are deserted. If you’re looking for a place to get away from it all, Pélicans Island is the perfect place!
FAQs
How Do I Get To Pélicans Island?
Pélicans Island is a small uninhabited island located in the Saint Lawrence River near the town of Saint-Andre-de-Lacolle, Quebec, Canada. It is accessed by a public ferry that operates from the town of Sainte-Marie-de-la-Pélicanterie. The island is accessible only by boat or helicopter.
What Can I Do On Pélicans Island?
There are a few attractions on the island, including the chapel, hiking trails, and kayaking routes. Visitors can also enjoy swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, and scuba diving.
What Is The Currency In Trinidad And Tobago?
The currency in Trinidad and Tobago is the Trinidad and Tobago dollar.
What Are The Prices For Food And Drink On Pélicans Island?
There are no restaurants or other businesses catering to tourists on Pélicans Island. Visitors must bring their own food and drinks.
Can I Bring My Pets On Pélicans Island?
Pets are not allowed on the island.
Do I Need A Visa To Visit Pélicans Island?
Pélicans Island is a Canadian island, so visitors do not require a visa to visit.
What Are Some Important Facts About This Island?
-The island is small and uninhabited
-There are no restaurants or other businesses catering to tourists on the island
-Pets are not allowed on the island
-Visitors need to bring their own food and drinks.
Leave a Reply