Hanakee
Islet in French Polynesia
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Hanakee or Motu Hanakee is a small rocky islet lying off the southern coast of Hiva Oa in French Polynesia,[1] separating Atuona Bay from Taʻa ʻOa.
Hanakee as seen from the northeast | |
 Interactive map of Hanakee | |
| Geography | |
|---|---|
| Location | Ta'a 'Oa |
| Coordinates | 9.8151°S 139.0402°W |
| Area | 1.24 km2 (0.48 sq mi) |
| Administration | |
| Overseas country | French Polynesia |
Description
The island's only vegetation is some small shrubs and grasses.[citation needed]
On the north side of the islet, small patches of shallow coral extend for 10 metres (11 yd). On the south side, steeper and rockier reefs can be found.[2]
Wildlife
Hanakee is an Important Shark and Ray Area (ISRA). The area surrounding the island in a major feeding area for the reef manta ray. The rays are also seen cleaning in the waters around Hanakee, in the largest aggregation in the Marquesas Islands. Apart from reef manta rays, giant oceanic manta rays, spotted eagle rays, and blotched fantail rays have also been observed in the area.[2]
Archaeology
The islet was inhabited by early Polynesians, and remnants of traditional ceremonial platforms and other archaeological sites have been found.[3]
