Peche Island

Peche Island, an 86-acre island, was purchased by Hiram Walker in 1883. Walker used the island for a summer place, and his buildings included a stable, large home, greenhouse, and ice house. The property was sold in 1907. Peche Island was acquired by the City of Windsor on November 1, 1999. Formerly, the island was managed as a provincial park by the provincial government. The island lies 330 metres off the Detroit River shoreline at the eastern edge of Windsor. Lakeview Park Marina offers a good view of the island from the mainland. Lakeview Park Marina is the closest mainland marina to launch boats and paddle or motor to the island. The island is open for public use from June to October each year; docking facilities are located on the south side of the island. The interior of Peche Island preserves Provincially Significant Wetlands, and the entire island is an Area of Natural and Scientific Interest. The wetlands attract large numbers of waterfowl, especially Canvasback, Redhead, Lesser Scaup, Common Goldeneye and Common Mergans er, which c an be found in the nearby waters. Peregrine Falcons and Bald Eagles are often attracted by these large flocks and can sometimes be seen perched in the island's larger tree tops. During the late winter of 2011, up to 32 Bald Eagles were attracted to the area around the island by the open water and abundance of food. Looking to visit the isl