Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge

06/14/2026

B.A.R.K. RANGER HIKE CANCELED DUE TO SEVERE WEATHER

06/14/2026

The temps are rising, and we sure are feeling that humidity!

Typically, evaporating sweat helps cool us down, but the moisture in the air makes that more difficult. Less evaporation can lead to heat illness, and it's important to keep your eyes open for heat illness--for yourself and your loved ones!

How to Stay Healthy from Michigan.gov:
>> Keep cool indoors.
>> Take a cool shower or bath.
>> Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, don't wait until you are thirsty.
>>Avoid exercise and physical activity during the hottest time of the day.
>>Stay out of the sun.
>>Check on family, friends and neighbors at least once a day during times of extreme heat.
>>NEVER leave children, the elderly, or pets in parked cars.

Extreme Heat

06/12/2026

Our Annual Fishing Fun Day is this Saturday, June 13 right here at the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge!!! Join us and Wayne County Parks from 9 AM-11 AM for fishing and 11 AM-1 PM for kayaking.

Everything is FREE, and all gear is provided! No registration is required, and all ages are welcome. For more information, contact us at [email protected].

06/11/2026

Iiiii'm gonna soak up the suuuun! 🎶

Turtles are often seen basking in the sunlight on a log or rock out in the water to regulate their body temperature. The sunlight also helps them develop strong shells and bones by assisting with Vitamin D3 production. Drying off in the sun can also help kill fungal growth on their shells.

Photo credit: E. Van Kirk/USFWS

06/10/2026

Turtle nesting season is underway!

Many female turtles travel in search of the perfect place to lay their eggs, often crossing roads along the way. If you're out driving, please stay alert and watch for turtles on or near the roadway. A little extra caution can help protect these incredible animals and ensure they safely reach their nesting sites.

Photo credit: E. Van Kirk/USFWS

06/09/2026

Flow into Nature: Yoga and a Hike
Sunday, June 14 @ 10am-12pm
It's free! All encouraged all to bring own equipment.

Join us for a rejuvenating yoga and hike experience that combines mindful movement, fresh air, and beautiful scenery. Start with a guided yoga session, then connect with nature on a relaxed hike designed for all fitness levels.
>> Reduce stress
>> Build strength and flexibility
>> Connect with like-minded people
>> Recharge your mind and body

Can't make it this Sunday? Our next Flow into Nature event is Sunday, July 12.

06/09/2026

PLEASE NOTE: ORANGE TRAIL AND PATH TO GREEN TRAIL ARE CLOSED THIS MORNING (June 9) FOR HAZARDOUS TREE REMOVAL! Please access the Green Trail via the boardwalk.

Questions? Email [email protected].

Photo credit: E. Van Kirk/USFWS

06/08/2026

Every year during the second week of June, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service shell-e-brates native turtles and the staff and partners working to conserve them.

Turtles are among the most imperiled vertebrates in the world. Our turtles face growing threats from habitat loss, disease, and vehicles when crossing roads.

Michigan is home to two native map turtle species: Northern Map Turtle (Graptemys geographica) and Common Map Turtle (Graptemys geographica).

Photo credit: Steven Sprankle

05/31/2026

This Spring, the CWMA worked with Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge Volunteers to pull dame’s rocket (Hesperis matronalis) and garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata) from refuge lands.

These invasive plants reproduce prolifically and can out compete native spring wildflowers.

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Photo: A hillside is covered in thick green vegetation with purple and white flowers dotting the upland. A man can be seen bent over in the background with a trash bag.
Credit: DR-WLE CWMA

05/26/2026

Have you found an Inside|Out artwork here at the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge? Take a photo and share it using — we’d love to see it!

Bonus point: Do you know the name of the island in the background of this photo? Tell us in the comments!

Detroit Institute of Arts

"The Trappers Return" by George Caleb Bingham installed on a wooden kiosk with water and an island in the background.
Photo by A. Gilford/USFWS