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Map Satellite Negit Island is an important nesting area for the California gull, Larus californicus, and the Caspian tern, Hydroprogne caspia. During the breeding season thousands of these birds nest on the island. Other species of importance during nesting or migration are Western grebe, Aechmophorus occidentalis, eared grebe, Podiceps caspicus, Wilson's phalarope, Steganopus tricolor, and northern phalarope, Lobipes lobatus.
Negit Island rises over 75 meters (200 feet) above Mono Lake and is approximately 2.4 kilometers (1.5 miles) offshore, situated 0.8 kilometers (0.5 miles) northwest of the larger Paoha Island.
As a volcanic island of basaltic origin, its most dominant color is black; however, light-colored pumiceous rocks predominate around the shoreline. On the east side there is a fissure in a basalt flow which is approximately 60 meters (200 feet) long, 3 meters (10 feet) wide, and 18 meters (60 feet) deep.
The island is quite rocky and barren and lacks fresh water. It supports a very small amount of vegetation.
Integrity: The island was designated Class IV Outstanding Natural Area on August 31, 1972 by the Bureau of Land Management. Aside from the remains of several old movie structures, there is no development.
Use: Research; restricted access during breeding season.
January 1975
Inventory of California Natural Areas
Revision © 2009 Steven Louis Hartman
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