Look Who's Back...

Sept 29, 2009 ... State and federal wildlife authorities said Monday that a pair of ospreys successfully nested in Wayne County this year, the first such documented case since the 1890s. The pair of ospreys built a nest earlier this year in a cell phone tower near the Gibraltar Wetlands Unit of the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge, said John Hartig, manager of the refuge.The pair fledged two young.

"There is no doubt that more needs to be done to clean up the Detroit River, but the environmental improvement achieved to date has laid the foundation for one of the most remarkable ecological recoveries in North America," Hartig said.

One of the largest birds of prey in North America with a wingspan
of nearly 6 feet, ospreys are known as fish hawks and feed almost exclusively on fish. Ospreys, like bald eagles, saw a dramatic
decline throughout North America because of widespread use of
DDT and other pesticides. DDT was banned in Michigan in 1969
and nationwide in 1972.

For complete article, see, "The osprey has re-landed in Wayne County", by John Gallagher, Free Press Business Writer, The Detroit Free Press, Sept. 29, 2009.

Although our community was deeded in 1776, Grosse Ile is still something of a secret to our "mainland" friends. Our island is home to more than 10,000 residents who believe our small town is the perfect place to live, raise a family, work, recreate or just relax.

We invite you to savor the many natural wonders which this island world uniquely offers in the heart of the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge on the south side of suburban Detroit. Grosse Ile is conveniently located within an easy commute of downtown Detroit, Oakland County, Monroe and Metro Airport.

Whether you measure success in terms of a gorgeous,
water-wonderland atmosphere, a host of charming neighborhoods, or the excellence of schools, public safety or community spirit, Grosse Ile will become even better —
if you come visit and perhaps even decide to stay!
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