Freshwater Jellyfish in Michigan?!
We’ve lived in Michigan our entire lives and both of us grew up traveling all over this wonderful state. Just when we both thought we have seen (or at least, heard) it all, today we got thrown for a loop.
We like to launch our double kayak in Round Lake, the one that’s part of Hayes State Park in the Irish Hills, where it is super calm and quiet then go down the river into Wamplers Lake and ending at Katelyn’s parents’ place. It’s a nice hour+ trip depending on how much sightseeing we do!
Well today on Round Lake, it was very different. As we are slowly paddling through, Marc looking for fish since he often fishes this lake, we suddenly found ourselves surrounded by something weird in the water.
Little round things floating in the water. And upon further inspection, they turn out to be jellyfish! In Michigan. On a freshwater, inland lake.
With the kayak moving and the sun glaring it was hard to get a good picture
We just could not believe our eyes!
Take a look for yourself:
Now I’m guessing you’re probably just as confused as we were. So here’s what we’ve been able to find out:
In 2015 and 2016 there are a couple news stories coming out of Michigan, mostly West Michigan, about this exact thing. Although it’s kind of rare, it has happened before in Michigan.
According to The Detroit News in 2016: The non-native species is home to one region in China, but they have been reported in Michigan since the 1930s, according to the United States Geological Survey. Experts said these penny-sized invertebrates are not dangerous to humans nor Michigan's ecological system.
According to Michigan Radio in 2017: Freshwater jellyfish are native to China's Yangtze River, but they've been found in many places across the United States. The Great Lakes has struggled with its fair share of invasive species, including Asian carp and zebra mussels, but it seems freshwater jellyfish are a low priority
According to Indiana DNR: They are typically found in late summer during August and September. Their appearance is sporadic and unpredictable. Individuals become apparent as they rise to the water surface in afternoon to early evening, especially on clear and warm days in calm water.
It was very cool to see. We floated with them for awhile, taking pictures and Facetiming family because it was almost too unbelievable.
Oh and in case you’re wondering, yes they sting. But apparently humans won’t actual feel it.
What do you think? Have you ever come across something so surprising in the wild that you didn’t even believe it yourself?