an island lying off the N. coast of Australia, between 11 S. and 11 56 S. Lat., and 130 20 and 131 24 E. Long. It is separated from the mainland on the E. by Dundas Strait, which is 15 miles in breadth, and on the S. by Clarence Strait; while on the W. it is separated from Bathurst Island by Apsley Strait, 46 miles in length, and varying from 1/2 to 4 m. in breadth. The coasts of the island, on all sides but the N., are high, and in many places bold and precipitous; but on the N. the coast is low, and abounds in shallow bays. The whole island is well wooded, and in some places very thickly, except on the W. coast, where the trees are few and stunted, by reason of the N.W. monsoon. The height of the central part is 100 or 130 feet; and throughout the whole island vegetation is luxuriant, and many sorts of timber, useful for carpentry and shipbuilding, are obtained here. In all the creeks of Melville Island alligators abound; and turtles are found in great numbers on all the coasts, except that of Apsley Strait. The animals found in the island closely resemble those of Australia. The climate from October till April or May is unhealthy, on account of the excessive heat and moisture of the atmosphere. The N.W. monsoon begins about November, and rain falls in great abundance during all the hot season. From May till September the weather is dry and pleasant, though the heat even then is great. The inhabitants are divided into small tribes, and lead a wandering life, being chiefly employed in hunting. They are not much inclined to intercourse with Europeans.