Prince Edward Island

the smallest province in Canada
makes up 0.1% of Canada''s total area
has 800 kilometres of beaches
provincial capital Charlottetown
provincial bird Blue Jay
provincial tree Red Oak
provincial flower Lady's Slipper
in the Atlantic Time Zone

coat of arms pei One of the four Atlantic Maritime provinces, Prince Edward Island lies in the Gulf of St Lawrence, separated from Nova Scotia to the south and New Brunswick to the west by the Northumberland Strait. Google Map

PEI is a crescent shaped island 224 kilometres in length and varies from 6-64 kilometres in width. The total area of the province is 5,660 square kilometres, and its highest point is 152 metres above sea level.

Prince Edward Island is noted for its rich red soil, sand dunes and 800 kilometres of beaches. The rich soil and temperate climate make the island ideal for mixed farming, and the province is known as "the Garden Province," or the Garden of the Gulf."

The island's landscape is pastoral: rolling hills, pristine forests, reddish white sand beaches, ocean coves and the famous red soil have given Prince Edward Island a reputation as a province of outstanding natural beauty.

The island's lush landscape has had a strong bearing not only on its economy but also its culture. The smaller rural communities as well as the towns and villages throughout the province proudly retain a slower-paced, old world flavour.

The coastline consists of a combination of long beaches, dunes, red sandstone cliffs, salt water marshes and numerous bays and harbours. Large dune fields on the north shore can be found on barrier islands at the entrances to various bays and harbours. The dune system is home to a variety of birds and rare plants and is also a site of significant archaeological interest.

Lakes and Rivers - PEI has numerous lakes and rivers, most of which are quite small.

Climate - Prince Edward Island is known for its moderate climate. Spring and fall temperatures range from 8 to 22 degrees C. (46-72F)Summer is hot, but rarely humid with daytime temperatures usually in the mid 20 degrees C and highs up to 32 degrees C(90F). Winter temperatures usually range from -3 to -11 degrees C (26-12F).

See also

Birding Atlantic Canada

National Park in Prince Edward Island

Amphibians of the Maritimes

Reptiles of the Maritimes