About Groundhog Day
Groundhog Day is February 2nd. Traditionaly the groundhog, known as Punxsutawney Phil, comes out from his hole at around 7:30 am in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania and either sees or doesn’t see his shadow.
The outcome of this drama is a not-so scientific way of predicting whether winter will last longer, 6 weeks longer, or if spring will get here sooner.
The Groundhog tradition goes back far in time. One of the earliest references of Groundhog Day dates back to 1841. Phil has only not seen his shadow 16 times in this days history, and he has only seen his shadow 99 times since the year 1886.
Waiting another 6 weeks for Spring is disappointing to everyone, but like any weatherman or weatherwoman, Punxsutawney Phil has a 50% chance of being right and a 50% chance of being wrong. And as with most weather forecasting, it is not an exact science. And most folks won’t complain if Phil gets proven wrong.
What is a groundhog exactly?
A groundhog is a rodent. They are actually a member of the squirrel family and is also known as a woodchuck.
For the most part, groundhogs are vegetarian eating lots of grass and greens.
The life expectancy of a groundhog is anywhere from 9 to 14 years if they are in captivity. But those that live in the wild live an average of only a few years, 2 -3.
Groundhog Day the Movie
Nothing did more to put Groundhog Day on the map then the 1993 romantic comedy movie, “Groundhog Day” starring Andie McDowell and Bill Murray. In fact watching “Groundhog Day” is a perfect way to celebrate this funny February holiday with the entire family.