Nature Conservancy of Canada acquires island known as 'hotel for birds'

The Nature Conservancy of Canada has acquired an island off the coast of P.E.I. that is known as a ‘hotel for birds.’

The organization says Holman’s Island, which is located less than two kilometres from the Summerside wharf in Bedeque Bay, is an important part of P.E.I.’s cultural history.

Holman’s Island was home to the Island Park Hotel – the province’s first summer resort – which was established in 1872. The hotel burned down in 1904 and the island has since naturally reverted to a refuge for wildlife and shorebirds.

The Nature Conservancy of Canada says the 36-hectare island is one of 16 internationally-recognized Important Bird Areas in P.E.I. and is home to many species of birds such as the Atlantic Brant, Canada geese, and the endangered Red Knot.

It says that by protecting Holman’s Island from development, the area will continue to serve as an important refuge for birds, and ultimately contribute to the sustainability of waterfowl populations in P.E.I. and along the Atlantic Flyway.

The organization has acquired the island from siblings Rodney Clark and Sue Kelly, who want to see it designated as a nature reserve.

Holman’s Island also features four hectares of salt marsh and 80 acres of mature Acadian forest.

The Nature Conservancy of Canada has assisted in the protection of 10 of P.E.I.’s 19 offshore islands.