The island is most famous for its wild horses, with a population of approximately 500 Sable Island horses that have adapted to the harsh environment over centuries. Marine mammals are abundant, including grey seals and harbor seals that use the island as a breeding ground. Over 350 species of birds have been recorded, with several species nesting on the island, including Ipswich Sparrows that breed nowhere else in the world. The island also supports various invertebrates and insects, some of which are unique subspecies found only on Sable Island.
Despite harsh conditions, Sable Island supports over 175 species of plants, including marram grass, which plays a crucial role in stabilizing the dunes. The vegetation is primarily composed of beach grasses, herbaceous plants, and low-growing shrubs adapted to sandy soils and salt spray. Notable species include beach pea, sandwort, and cranberry. The island lacks trees due to salt spray and strong winds, though a single small pine tree, planted in 1960, has managed to survive. Several rare plant species are found here, making it an important site for botanical research.
The island is essentially a massive sand bar, formed during the last ice age from glacial deposits shaped by ocean currents. Stretching approximately 42 kilometers in length but only 1.5 kilometers at its widest point, Sable Island is composed entirely of sand and is constantly shifting due to wind and wave action. The island features a series of parallel dune systems, with the highest dunes reaching up to 30 meters above sea level. Despite its dynamic nature, the island's core has remained relatively stable for several centuries, anchored by vegetation and groundwater dynamics.
Sable Island's documented history dates back to the early 1500s, earning the nickname 'Graveyard of the Atlantic' due to over 350 recorded shipwrecks along its shores. Portuguese sailors first marked it on maps as 'Santa Cruz,' though earlier Mi'kmaq legends referenced the island. The first permanent settlement was established in 1801 when the government set up lifesaving stations. The island has hosted various human activities including seal hunting, shipwreck salvage, and scientific research stations. In 2013, it was officially designated as a National Park Reserve under Parks Canada's protection.
The most distinctive features include the iconic wild horses roaming freely across the landscape, extensive dune systems, and numerous freshwater ponds scattered throughout the island. The West Light and East Light stations, though no longer operational, stand as historic landmarks. The island's south beach stretches uninterrupted for nearly its entire length, while the north beach is known for its seal colonies. Whale watching opportunities exist offshore, and the island's remote location offers exceptional stargazing opportunities. The island also contains several research stations and weather monitoring facilities that continue to provide valuable scientific data.
Sable Island experiences a maritime climate characterized by mild winters and cool summers, heavily influenced by the Atlantic Ocean. The island receives frequent fog, with an average of 127 fog days per year, particularly during summer months. Temperatures typically range from -5°C in winter to 20°C in summer. Strong winds are common year-round, averaging 25 km/h, with storms and hurricane-force gusts possible. Precipitation occurs throughout the year, with annual rainfall around 1,500mm, while snow is relatively rare due to the moderating effect of the ocean.
Canada
43.9330°, -59.9170°
2013
34
Sable Island National Park Reserve protects a remote crescent-shaped sandbar in the Atlantic Ocean. The island is famous for its wild horses, extensive dune systems, and numerous shipwrecks. It serves as an important breeding ground for seals and hosts various species of migratory birds.