ait

An ait, also spelled eyot or ayot, is a small island formed within a river by sediment deposition. Aits are typically low-lying and may be composed of mud, sand, or gravel, often supporting grasses, shrubs, or young trees. They arise when river flow slows or diverts, allowing sediments to accumulate and rise above the water level. Over time, floods and erosion can move an ait or change its shape; some persist for decades, while others disappear or merge with adjacent banks.

Geographic distribution: The word ait is chiefly used in England and other parts of the British Isles to refer to river islands, especially in the Thames and other large rivers. Eyot is an older or regional variant spelling; both terms denote similar features.

Ecology and land use: Aits provide habitat for waterfowl and riparian vegetation and can influence local hydrology by diverting flows or trapping sediment. Many are uninhabited and natural, though some are occasionally used for grazing, wildlife reserves, or private access, and a few are settled or cultivated in the past.

See also: River island, Eyot, Islet.