The strait between the Asian part of Russia and the American part of Alaska is known as the Bering Strait. This narrow body of water connects the Bering Sea to the Arctic Ocean and is about 53 miles wide at its narrowest point. The strait is historically significant, as it is believed that early humans migrated from Asia to North America across the land bridge that once existed there—referred to as Beringia. Today, the strait is critical for wildlife, including various marine species and migratory birds.