Miquelon Island Map

Description:

Miquelon Island is one of the main islands in the French territorial collectivity of Saint Pierre and Miquelon, located off the coast of Newfoundland, Canada. The island consists of two parts: Grande Miquelon and Petite Miquelon (also known as Langlade), connected by a sandy isthmus called Le Goulet, which was formed in the 18th century.

The island covers an area of approximately 79 square miles (205 square kilometers). Grande Miquelon, the northern part, is largely composed of rocky hills, while Langlade features more forested areas and rolling landscapes. The climate is subarctic maritime, characterized by cold winters and cool summers, with frequent fog throughout the year.

The main settlement on the island is the village of Miquelon, located on Grande Miquelon, with a population of approximately 600 residents. The local economy is primarily based on fishing, particularly cod fishing, although this industry has declined significantly since the 1992 cod moratorium. Tourism and small-scale agriculture also contribute to the island's economy.

Notable landmarks include the Grand Barachois, a lagoon that serves as a habitat for seals, and the Miquelon Lighthouse, constructed in 1883. The island is also home to the Miquelon-Langlade Airport, which provides essential transportation links to Saint Pierre and mainland destinations. The unique ecosystem of Miquelon supports various wildlife species, including seabirds, harbor seals, and wild horses that roam freely on the isthmus.