Groundhog Facts Day 3

Groundhog whistle to woo the gal they're courtin'

Phil weighs 20 lbs (5 pounds more than the norm)

When hibernatin' the groundhog's body temp drops to just above freezing (a true hibernator)

So the story goes, Punxsutawney Phil was named after King Phillip. Prior to being called Phil, he was called Br'er Groundhog.

Phil is fed dog food.

Punxsutawney is Native American for "town of sandflies"

A Canadian researcher did a careful study and found that the groundhog gets it right about 37 percent of the time. (Though the website boasts a 100% accuracy rate)

Some Key Dates in Phil's History

1943
Groundhog didn't make an appearance; need to rely on Quarryville's prediction

2000
Saw Shadow at 7:28 AM. Dawn of a "new Phillennium!"

2001
Saw Shadow at 7:25 AM. Phil's forecast was shown live on the JumboTron in Times Square, New York City!

Phil's Prediction Record

Saw Shadow:
96
No Shadow:
14
No Record:
9

Well I hope ya'll have enjoyed learning more about this awe inspiring holiday. "Town of sandflies" here we come! Tonight the Somervilles and Hustons embarks on this once in a life time journey. Look for details of our trip Saturday or Sunday.