Ecological reserve overview
Oak Bay Islands Ecological Reserve was established to protect vulnerable nesting seabirds, uncommon meadow communities, showy and rare early spring wildflowers as well as representative shallow-water marine habitats. It is closed to the public.
Ecological reserves protect special natural ecosystems, and support research and education. They are not intended for outdoor recreation.
Advisories
The reserve has three units, the largest (Great Chain Island and Chain Islets) being 2km east of Oak Bay. Jemmy Jones Island is 2.5km north of Great Chain Island in Baynes Channel. Alpha Island, part of the Chatham-Discovery Group, is 5.5km east of Oak Bay.
Ecological reserve and activity maps
Any maps listed are for information only. They may not represent legal boundaries and should not be used for navigation.
Learn more about this ecological reserve
Ecological reserve details
- Date established: July 26, 1979
- Size: 232 hectares (11 ha upland and 221 ha foreshore)
- Biogeoclimatic zone:
- Coastal Douglas-fir
- Terrestrial ecosection:
- Strait of Georgia
- Marine ecosection:
- Strait of Georgia
Nature and culture
A detailed description of this ecological reserve is available to support education and research.
Research and educational activities require a permit.
Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples
BC Parks honours Indigenous Peoples’ connection to the land and respects the importance of their diverse teachings, traditions, and practices within these territories. This park webpage may not adequately represent the full history of this park and the connection of Indigenous Peoples to this land. We are working in partnership with Indigenous Peoples to update our websites so that they better reflect the history and cultures of these special places.