Calf of Man (high)

The Calf of Man is a small island located off the southwest coast of the Isle of Man. It covers an area of approximately 618 acres and has a highest point of 128 meters above sea level. The island is separated from the Isle of Man by a narrow stretch of water called the Calf Sound.

The Calf of Man has a unique history, having been owned by the Keig family until 1939. The island was then purchased by F. J. Dickens, who donated it to the National Trust to become a bird sanctuary. In 1951, the Manx Museum & National Trust, later known as Manx National Heritage, rented the Calf from the National Trust for a nominal fee of £1 per year. In 1986, ownership was transferred to Manx National Heritage, and in 2006, the Manx Wildlife Trust was employed as the Calf Warden Service Provider.

Today, the Calf of Man is a bird observatory, welcoming visits from volunteers and ornithologists. The observatory can accommodate up to eight visitors in basic self-catering accommodation, which can be booked through Manx National Heritage. The island has a population of just two people, who live on the island seasonally.