Linga Holm

Old Norse name	Linga Holm from Lyngholm
The view north from Linga Holm, towards Sanday
Location
Linga Holm Linga Holm shown within Orkney
OS grid reference	HY615275
Coordinates	59°08′N 2°40′W / 59.13°N 2.67°W / 59.13; -2.67
Physical geography
Island group	Orkney
Area	57 hectares (0.22 sq mi)
Area rank	187 [1]
Highest elevation	10 metres (33 ft)
Administration
Sovereign state	United Kingdom
Country	Scotland
Council area	Orkney Islands
Demographics
Population	0
References	[2][3][4][5]

Linga Holm, commonly known as Linga, Midgarth and the Holm of Midgarth is an uninhabited Scottish island extending to approximately 57 hectares (0.22 sq mi) situated 700 metres (770 yd) west of Stronsay island in the Orkney archipelago.^[6] 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.^[3][7]

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.^[8][9]

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.