Baker Island is an uninhabited coral atoll situated in the central Pacific Ocean. It is considered an incorporated territory of the United States and falls under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. This remote island is located approximately 1,600 miles southwest of Honolulu, Hawaii, making it part of the Hawaiian archipelago.
Covering an area of about 0.9 square miles, Baker Island consists of a small, low-lying circular landmass. It is made up of sandy beaches, rocky formations, and vegetation primarily composed of shrubs and grasses. The island is surrounded by a fringing reef, making it relatively inaccessible and limiting its usage.
Named after Captain Michael Baker, who spotted the island in 1832, Baker Island has served various purposes throughout history. It was previously utilized for guano mining during the late 19th century. Following that, the United States claimed it and established a navigation aid for marine purposes. However, it has never had a permanent human population.
Being uninhabited, Baker Island is mainly recognized for its significant ecological value. It serves as an important habitat for seabirds, migratory birds, and marine wildlife. It is also part of the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument established in 2009, protecting the surrounding marine ecosystem.
Due to its isolated location and limited accessibility, Baker Island remains mostly untouched by human activities, contributing to its pristine and unspoiled nature. It is primarily visited for scientific research, wildlife monitoring, and occasional recreational purposes.
