Nova Scotia island home to important bird site to be protected by nature trust

The Nova Scotia Nature Trust has announced the protection of more than 260 hectares of land on Seal Island off the southwestern tip of the province. The east side of Seal Island Beach is seen in an undated handout photo: THE CANADIAN PRESS/Nova Scotia Nature Trust

CLARK'S HARBOUR, N.S. -- The Nova Scotia Nature Trust has announced the protection of more than 260 hectares of land on Seal Island off the southwestern tip of the province.

The remote island, one of the region's most important sites for migratory birds, is renowned for its vast numbers of birds and wide variety of species, including rare breeds.

The trust says the conservation lands, which take up nearly 80 per cent of the island, had been threatened by private development.

Executive director Bonnie Sutherland says the protection of one of the most important islands for migratory birds in Atlantic Canada "is a major win for bird conservation and recovery."

Over 330 bird species have been recorded on Seal Island including the roseate tern, harlequin duck, Canada warbler, rusty blackbird, red knot, and barn swallow.

Located 32 kilometres off the coast, Seal Island features a diversity of habitats, from stunted mossy forest, to salt marsh, rocky shore, and grass dunes.