Linga Holm Explained

Location Map:Scotland Orkney
Gridreference:HY615275
Coordinates:59.13°N -2.67°W
Norse Name:Linga Holm from Lyngholm
Area:57ha
Area Rank:187
Highest Elevation:10m (30feet)
Population:0
Island Group:Orkney
Local Authority:Orkney Islands
References:[1] [2] [3]

Linga Holm, commonly known as Linga, Midgarth and the Holm of Midgarth is an uninhabited Scottish island extending to approximately 57ha situated 700m (2,300feet) west of Stronsay island in the Orkney archipelago.[4] The name "Linga Holm" is derived from the Old Norse Lyngholm.

History

In common with many other Orkney islands, Linga Holm contains numerous archaeological remains. These include Pictish houses and ancient cairns.

Although it is currently uninhabited, a household of six was recorded in 1841.[5]

Sheep

In 1973 the Rare Breeds Survival Trust established a refuge population here of the very rare North Ronaldsay sheep, and the flock now numbers some 400.[6] [7]

Wildlife

It is thought to be the third largest breeding ground for the Atlantic grey seal in the world, and is an important nesting site for greylag geese.

See also

Notes and References

  1. 2001 UK Census per List of islands of Scotland
  2. http://www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/ Ordnance Survey
  3. Anderson, Joseph (Ed.) (1893) Orkneyinga Saga. Translated by Jón A. Hjaltalin & Gilbert Goudie. Edinburgh. James Thin and Mercat Press (1990 reprint).
  4. John Maurius Wilson, The Imperial Gazetteer of Scotland: Or, Dictionary of Scottish Topography, 1854
  5. http://www.freecenorkney.org.uk/eday1841.html FreeCEN Orkney Website
  6. http://www.scottish-places.info/features/featurefirst1771.html Gazetteer for Scotland: Linga Holm
  7. http://www.fwi.co.uk/news/rare-sheeps-home-up-for-sale.htm Farmers' Weekly news item about sale of Linga Holm in 1999