Grand Isle has long been recognized as one of the most important stopover sites for neotropical migratory birds flying across the Gulf of Mexico on their annual migration to and from North America.
Why is Grand Isle important to Louisiana?
As an early home to the pirate Jean Lafitte, the island has long maintained a sentimental and romantic place in the history of the Pelican State. Yet beyond the historical romance, Grand Isle serves as a literal buffer to the destructive hurricane forces for many inland communities such as Houma and New Orleans.