Carnac Island

Carnac Island, also known as Ngooloormayup in Noongar language, is a 19-hectare (47-acre) nature reserve in Western Australia. The island has a rich history, including serving as a whaling station in the early 19th century and a prison for indigenous Australians in 1838. Its first mention was in 1803 when French explorer Louis de Freycinet named it Île Pelée (Bald Island).

James Stirling later renamed it Pulo Carnac Island in honour of Second Lieutenant John Rivett Carnac. The island was used for various purposes over the years, including as a quarantine station and for defence purposes.

Carnac Island is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including Australian sea lions, bottlenose dolphins, and New Zealand fur seals. It is densely populated with snakes, particularly tiger snakes, and is known for the abundance and size of its snake population. The origin of the tiger snake colony is debated, but one theory suggests that it dates back to 1929 when a man named Lindsay "Rocky" Vane dumped his tiger snake collection on the island. Due to the lack of permanent fresh water sources, most animals struggle to survive on the island. The king skinks that inhabit the island often engage in confrontations with tiger snakes.

In addition to its unique fauna, Carnac Island is also classified as an Important Bird Area. It supports a large colony of the vulnerable fairy tern species and small numbers of other nesting seabirds. With its rich history, unique wildlife, and remote location, Carnac Island is a must-visit destination for nature and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors should exercise caution and stay on the beach due to the island