Wattle Island (Antarctica)

Wattle Island is a small, rocky island located in Vincennes Bay, off the coast of Wilkes Land, Antarctica. Situated approximately 3 nautical miles northwest of the larger Clark Island, it is part of a group of islands and rocks in the region.

The island was first mapped by aerial photographs taken during U.S. Navy Operation Highjump (1946-1947). It was named by the Advisory Committee on Antarctic Names (US-ACAN) in honor of William D. Wattle, a photographer's mate in the U.S. Navy. Wattle served with Task Force 68 during Operation Windmill (1947-1948), which supplemented Operation Highjump by establishing ground control stations to allow for more accurate map-making.

The island is generally uninhabited by humans. Its remote location and harsh climate make it unsuitable for permanent settlement. Wildlife present likely includes seabirds and potentially seals, consistent with the fauna found in similar Antarctic coastal environments. The island's geology is likely comprised of exposed bedrock, characteristic of the Antarctic landscape.