Did you know that Punxsutawney Phil claims that he is correct in his predictions 100% of the time? Yet last year, he predicted an early spring – and everyone can surely remember how long winter lasted in 2011. Correct 100% of the time, don’t think so. Woody, Michigan’s Official Groundhog, who resides at the Howell Conference & Nature Center, doesn’t make such silly claims. She can woodchuck-up and admit when her forecast turns sour. Of course, she has only had to do that 4 times, as she has been correct in her predictions 9 out of 13 times, including last year when she saw her shadow and crawled back into her den.
After Phil’s huge gaffe with his 2011 prediction gone wrong (which followed 2 previous years of incorrect predictions), it’s safe to say that this “chuck” has lost his edge. Sources close to Phil confirm that he’s so distraught over his string of bad forecasts, he didn’t come out of hibernation until July. Obviously not the prognosticator the fine residents of Michigan should be relying on for this important weather determination.
This February 2, get your reliable prediction straight from Woody’s mouth! The Howell Conference & Nature Center will host a special celebration starting at 7:45 a.m., with the long-awaited prediction coming at 8:15 a.m. sharp! No matter the weather – wind, rain, snow, sleet, or sunshine – Woody will make her 14th prediction at the Nature Center. After her prediction, enjoy a free continental breakfast provided by the Howell Conference & Nature Center.
Don’t forget about the annual crazy outfit contest for kids! Brave the winter weather in a crazy outfit for a chance to win a great prize – the child with the most outrageous outfit will receive one free week at summer camp.
The younger raptor has suffered a permanent wing injury and will likely become an "Animal Ambassador," playing the important role of educating the public about birds of prey.
We have high hopes that the older bird will recover within the next few weeks and will be released back into the wild.
