The bluegill is small freshwater fish normally measuring around 6 inches, but can get up to 12 inches. These fish typically weigh less than a pound. The fish’s body is dark green in color and oval shaped with dark bars running vertically down their sides. Behind their eyes is a black ear flap. The belly of a female bluegill is yellow, while the belly of a breeding male is a rusty red color. The bluegill has two dorsal fins and a small mouth. The body of the bluegill is very condensed.
Spawning season begins in late May and doesn’t end until August. The male bluegills first arrive at the mating site and the make a spawning bed in shallow water. As a female bluegill approaches the nest, the male will circle around and make grunting noises. The females are more attracted to the larger male fish. After the female bluegill chooses her mate, she joins him in the nest and they both circle each other. If the female still decides to stay, they settle in the middle of the nest and the pair touch bellies and spawn. After the female drops the eggs, the male chases her out of the nest and guards the eggs. He will stay there until they hatch (5 days) and are able to swim on their own. Bluegills are generally sexually mature at one year of age. The lifespan of a bluegill is 5-8 years old.
The Bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus) is a species of freshwater fish and one of the most common in here at the marsh.
Crosswinds Marsh is one of the largest man-made wetlands in the country. It was built to replace the wetlands that were paved over to expand Wayne County's Detroit Metro Airport (the McNamara terminal). Wayne County, together with Sumpter Township, purchased over 900 acres of farmland that believe it or not, was once wetland that had been converted into farm fields by draining the land...in a process that took over a year. They flooded former farm fields, planted new wetland plants and transplanted endangered species from metro Airport. The area is managed by the Wayne County Parks.
The Cache is a large sized lock & lock hidden along the Bluegill Trail in the typical fashion. As always, please use stealth and return the cache to it's original location.
Crosswinds Marsh Rules
No fires
No bikes / ATVs / personal watercraft
No swimming or ice fishing
Dogs must be leashed
No alcohol or illegal substances
No camping
Fishing in designated areas only
Collecting of plants & animals prohibited
Park only at N 42 05.744 W 83 26.552
Crosswinds Marsh is open from DAWN to DUSK. Admission is free.