New island at Outer Banks attracts birders, photographers

The Associated Press , WVEC 5:12 PM. EDT June 21, 2017

Sunset at the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. A new island has formed off the tip of Cape Point, not far from the lighthouse. (Photo: Jorge Moro, Thinkstock)

BUXTON, N.C. (AP) - A new island off the tip of Cape Point in North Carolina is attracting bird watchers and other tourists.

The Virginian-Pilot reports the sandbar is a mile long and three football fields wide. It's just off the tip of Cape Point, near the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse.

But crossing the 50 yards to the island can be treacherous. Dave Hallac, superintendent of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, says visitors should not try to walk or swim across.

Bill Smith, president of the North Carolina Beach Buggy Association, adds hooks from decades of fishing could be lying on the bottom, and sharks and stingrays prowl the water.

© 2017 Associated Press

Source: New island at Outer Banks attracts birders, photographers