Wild Horse Island (Ktunaxa: kwiǂq̓anqmi ) is the largest island in Flathead Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Montana. For centuries, the Salish-Kootenai used the island, 2,165 acres (8.76 km²) in size, in order to pasture horses and keep them from being stolen by other tribes. Protected as a state park since 1978, the island near Big Arm Bay is home to abundant wildlife including bighorn sheep, mule deer, waterfowl, bald eagles, and at least three wild horses. Access is by boat only and for day use only. It is managed by the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks.