Little Calf Island
- Location: Little Calf Island is a small, rocky island located in the outer part of Boston Harbor, Massachusetts. It's part of the Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park.
- Size and Appearance: The island is quite small, less than an acre in size. It's basically a rocky outcrop that rises about 20 feet above sea level. It's mostly barren, with very little vegetation – just some sparse grasses and shrubs.
- History: Little Calf Island has a very minimal history of human involvement. There's no record of it ever being inhabited. It likely got its name from its proximity to nearby Calf Island, which was named after Robert Calef, a prominent Boston merchant in the 17th century.
- Wildlife: The primary inhabitants of Little Calf Island are birds, particularly gulls and cormorants. They use the island as a nesting site, and can be quite aggressive, especially during their nesting season.
- Access: Little Calf Island is not open to the public. It can only be accessed by private boat, and even then, it's not recommended to go ashore, especially during bird nesting season. This is to protect both the birds and the fragile ecosystem of the island.
- Management: The island is managed by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation as part of the Boston Harbor Islands National 1 and State Park.
Things to Know
- Remote and Wild: Little Calf Island is a truly remote and wild place. It's a reminder of the natural, untouched side of Boston Harbor.
- Important for Birds: The island plays a vital role as a nesting site for local bird populations.
- Respectful Observation: If you happen to see Little Calf Island from a boat, it's best to observe it from a distance and avoid disturbing the birds.
Little Calf Island is a small but significant part of the Boston Harbor Islands. It's a place where nature is in charge, and it's a reminder of the importance of preserving wild spaces, even in busy urban areas.