Show all postsDETROIT, MI- Hundreds of volunteers turned out on a sunny Saturday morning to help transfer the Belle Isle Aquarium’s koi fish to the outdoor pond.
292 fish were transferred from their indoor winter habitat using buckets to the pond in front of the aquarium.
Moe, the largest and oldest koi at the aquarium, is about 80 years old. Large plastic storage containers are used to transfer the larger fish.
The koi transfer event was the largest it has ever been according to Belle Isle Conservancy Board Member Vance Patrick who estimated crowds easily over 500.
The bi-annual koi transfer started 8-9 years ago, which used to be done by a handful of volunteers. Now the community is heavily involved in the unique event expanding each year.
Aside from carrying the fish to their summer home a troupe of acrobatic performers, the Lovely Lyra Ladies, showed off their aerial skills to the crowd.
Blaze and Ember, of Warren’s Breakout, juggled and performed hula hooping acts for the kids who could try their hands at the either actives.
Hot dogs and snacks were provided as many families enjoyed lunch under one of the cherry blossom trees around the conservancy.
Hundreds of families roamed around the aquarium inside the lush green rooms of the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory and around the gardens surrounding the Belle Isle treasure.
The Belle Isle Aquarium It is open Saturdays & Sundays, 10 am to 4 pm. Free admission and parking.
The Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory is open Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free admission.
Hundreds help transfer Belle Isle Aquarium"s koi fish to outdoor pond