Local Groundhogs Go With Early Spring

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By Jeff Muniz

Story Published: Feb 2, 2008 at 4:30 PM CDT

Story Updated: Feb 3, 2008 at 8:43 AM CDT

Going against the premier prognosticator, Punxsutawney Phil, two local groundhogs call for an early Spring in Central Illinois. February 2nd is Groundhog Day.

After a bit of hesitation due to the snow, Gertie, the resident Groundhog at Wildlife Prairie State Park, decided she had not seen her shadow and thus Spring is just around the corner. Park officials say Gertie has about a 70% accuracy rate.

At Lakeview Museum this morning, Gracie the Groundhog, also did not see her shadow and predicts an early Spring.

In Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, Phil did see his shadow and that means 6 more weeks of winter. The tradition in Pennsylvanie dates back to the first Groundhog Day in 1887.

Why is it if the Groundhog sees its shadow, there are six more weeks of winter? Bright and clear weather in North American Winter is often associated with very cold temperatures.

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