Sable Island

Sable Island
île de Sable
Satellite image of the island.
Sable Island
Sable Island
Coordinates: 43°55′51″N 59°55′04″W / 43.93083°N 59.91778°W / 43.93083; -59.91778
CountryCanada
ProvinceNova Scotia
MunicipalityHalifax Regional Municipality
District13
Area
 • Land31 km2 (12 sq mi)
Highest elevation
30 m (98 ft)
Population
 • Total
0
 • Density0/km2 (0/sq mi)
Time zoneUTC−04:00 (AST)
 • Summer (DST)UTC−03:00 (ADT)
GNBC CodeCBRQR

Sable Island (French: île de Sable, literally "island of sand") is an island in the North Atlantic Ocean, about 300 kilometres (160 nmi) southeast of Halifax, Canada, and about 175 kilometres (95 nmi) southeast of the closest point of mainland Nova Scotia. The island is staffed year-round by employees of Canada's National Parks agency, Parks Canada. The number of people on Sable Island fluctuates throughout the year, rising during the summer months when the island is frequented by researchers and an increased staff complement. Notable for its role in early Canadian history and the Sable Island horse, the island is protected and managed by Parks Canada, which must grant permission prior to any visit. Sable Island is part of District 7 of the Halifax Regional Municipality in Nova Scotia. The island is also a protected National Park Reserve and an Important Bird Area.