TALAUD ISLANDS

Indonesian Kepulauan Talaud, also spelled Talaur, or Talaut islands administered from Manado as part of Sulawesi Utara provinsi (province), Indonesia. The group includes Karakelong (the largest), Salebabu, Kaburuang, and numerous islets, with a total area of 495 square miles (1,281 square km). The coast of Karakelong Island is steep except on the southern shore, which is fringed by a wide reef. The seven tiny Nanusa Islands lie northeast of Karakelong. Forested and with hills rising to 2,231 feet (680 m), the Talauds produce ebony and ironwood as well as copra, sago, and nutmeg. The inhabitants are mostly Christian; historically the islands were subject to the princes of Sangihe. The principal town and capital is Beo. Pop. (1971) 15,683.