Howland Island is a small, lonely island in the Pacific Ocean. It is very far from big cities and people. Howland Island is part of the United States, but no one lives there. The island is known for its quiet nature and special history.

Many people know about Howland Island because of a famous pilot, Amelia Earhart. She was trying to fly around the world. Sadly, her plane disappeared near Howland Island in 1937. This made the island famous all over the world.

Where is Howland Island Located?

Howland Island sits near the equator, between Hawaii and Australia. It is in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. The island is very small and flat. It has no tall trees or mountains. It is just about 1.6 kilometers long and 0.8 kilometers wide.

Because it is so far away from land, it is hard to visit Howland Island. You cannot fly or sail there easily. Only special people from the U.S. government or scientists go there sometimes. They go to take care of the island and watch the birds and animals.

The Nature of Howland Island

Even though Howland Island has no people, it has many birds. Birds come here to lay eggs and rest. There are also crabs, insects, and plants. The U.S. protects the island to keep it safe for wildlife.

Howland Island is part of a big ocean park called the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument. This park helps take care of sea animals, birds, and coral reefs. The clean water and quiet land are great for nature.

Why is Howland Island Important?

Howland Island is important for two main reasons. First, it helps scientists learn about ocean life and birds. Second, it has a big place in history because of Amelia Earhart. She planned to land near Howland Island to refuel her plane. But she never made it. Her story is still a mystery today.

The U.S. keeps the island to remember that history and to protect nature. Even though it is small, Howland Island means a lot to the world.

Who Owns Howland Island?

The United States owns Howland Island. It became U.S. land many years ago under something called the Guano Islands Act. This law let the U.S. take islands with bird poop (called guano), which was used as fertilizer.

Now, the island is looked after by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. There are no buildings or people living there full time. But the U.S. makes sure no one harms the island or its animals.

Howland Island and Amelia Earhart

Amelia Earhart was one of the most famous pilots in history. In 1937, she flew with her navigator, Fred Noonan. They tried to fly around the world. One part of their trip was to stop at Howland Island for fuel.

Sadly, their plane never reached Howland Island. People searched for her for many days, but she was never found. Many people think she crashed in the ocean near the island. Because of this, Howland Island is part of her story forever.

What Can You See on Howland Island?

Howland Island has a flat, sandy surface. There are some small bushes and grass. Birds fly everywhere, and the sky is big and blue. You can also see coral reefs around the island under the water.

There are no houses or shops. There is an old runway built for Amelia Earhart, but it is not used now. The island is quiet, peaceful, and full of natural beauty.

Can People Visit Howland Island?

It is not easy to visit Howland Island. The island is protected, and people need special permission to go there. Boats or planes are needed, but there are no airports or docks. So, visits are very rare.

Scientists or U.S. officials sometimes visit to check the area. They take notes about birds, plants, and water life. But normal tourists cannot go to Howland Island.

Animals That Live on Howland Island

Many seabirds live on Howland Island. Birds like boobies, terns, and frigatebirds fly around the island. Sea turtles also swim near the island and lay eggs on the beach.

The coral reefs are home to colorful fish and sea animals. Because the island is so far from people, it is a good place for wildlife to grow and be safe.

Why is Howland Island Special for Scientists?

Scientists like to study Howland Island because it is untouched by humans. This helps them learn what nature looks like without people. They study birds, ocean life, and plants to understand more about Earth’s past and future.

The island also helps with weather and climate research. Since it's near the equator, scientists can watch how the ocean and air work together in that part of the world.

What is the Weather Like on Howland Island?

Howland Island has hot and sunny weather. It is near the equator, so the sun shines almost every day. There is little rain, and the island is dry. Sometimes, the ocean wind makes it cooler.

Because there are no trees, there is little shade. Plants that grow there can live in hot, dry places. The weather is good for birds that like warm beaches and quiet places.

Conclusion: The Quiet Beauty of Howland Island

Howland Island may be small and far away, but it is full of stories and nature. It reminds us of Amelia Earhart’s brave trip and also shows us a peaceful place for birds and sea life. Even though no one lives there, Howland Island is still very important.

The island is a gift for scientists, animals, and history lovers. Howland Island teaches us that even the tiniest places on Earth can be special.