Wilson Island, Coral cay in Queensland, Australia
Wilson Island is a small coral cay in Capricornia Cays National Park with white sandy beaches and dense pisonia forest. The island spans roughly 2 hectares and showcases a mix of beach and woodland vegetation characteristic of this coral ecosystem.
The island was named after Sub-Lieutenant William T.P. Wilson of HMS Waterwitch during surveys of the Great Barrier Reef in the 1800s. These maritime mapping expeditions documented this coral region and its islands for navigation and scientific purposes.
The island serves as a nesting ground for several seabird species that inhabit the dense forest vegetation. Visitors who come here can observe these birds in their natural habitat, though access is carefully managed to protect breeding colonies.
The island is accessible by boat from Heron Island, though visiting requires planning since access closes during specific periods to protect nesting wildlife. Bringing water and shade protection is essential, as the island offers minimal facilities for day visitors.
Green sea turtles use the island as a nesting site, with thousands of hatchlings making their way to the ocean between January and April. During the same season, humpback whales pass through the surrounding waters as part of their annual migration route.
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