Yes, every day has begun to feel like Groundhog Day. But, today is actually Groundhog Day, so now what? We decided to take a look at the two furry critters with the most cache, and see which furball reigns supreme and just what they are predicting for 2021.
Wiarton Willie
Origin: 1956, in Wiarton, Ontario northwest of Toronto
2021 Prediction: An early spring
Source of power: Resides on the 45th parallel, halfway between the equator and North Pole
Go time: 8:07 a.m.
Turf: Bluewater Park
Handlers: The Shadow Cabinet
Festivities: This year, Willie has gone virtual, but usually there is Willie’s Wonderland, fish fry, curling bonspiel, and sleigh rides. Willie got style.
Bottom line: Rumour has it, Willie is successful 90 per cent of the time, proving Canucks rule the weather prognostication game.
Well folks, my prediction is #official. With cloudy skies and snow falling upon us this morning in #Wiarton it was very hard to find my shadow – even with all the camera lights around! Fans of spring rejoice, an #EarlySpring is around the corner. #WiartonWillie #Wiarton pic.twitter.com/VEohypsXuU
— Wiarton Willie (@willieofficial) February 2, 2020
Punxsutawney Phil
Origin: 1887, in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania
2021 prediction: Six more weeks of winter
Source of power: A magic elixir administered each summer
Go time: 7:27 a.m.
Turf: Gobbler’s Knob
Handlers: The Inner Circle
Festivities: Jan. 31 to Feb. 2: Phil Fest, picnic, Oreo stacking, bingo and, of course, Zumba
Bottom line: Punxsutawney Phil has the experience, but his accuracy is a sad 39 per cent. He’s a glamour groundhog consumed by fame.
So sorry folks.. I’ve seen my shadow .. SIX MORE WEEKS OF WINTER!!#GroundhogDay #groundhogday2021
— Punxsutawney Phil (@PunxsatawnyPhil) February 2, 2021
Winner: Wiarton Willie! And, yes, an early spring will do nicely thank you.Â
