Groundhog Day: February 2, 2023

Groundhog Day is a time-honored tradition that takes place on February 2nd each year. The holiday has its roots in ancient European weather lore, and was brought to America by German settlers. The basic idea behind Groundhog Day is that if the groundhog emerges from its burrow and sees its shadow, winter will last for another six weeks. If the groundhog does not see its shadow, spring will arrive early.

Punxsutawney Phil has predicted six more weeks of winter for 2023.

Here in Arkansas the Groundhog will not be seeing its shadow!

Groundhog On A Log
Groundhog On A Log

Every year, thousands of people gather at Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania to celebrate Groundhog Day. The event is centered around the prediction made by Punxsutawney Phil, the most famous groundhog in the world. Phil has been making his predictions for over 130 years.

Groundhog Day is a special celebration that’s all about having fun and spreading joy! People come from near and far to enjoy music, food, and all sorts of exciting entertainment. But it’s not just about Punxsutawney Phil making his famous weather prediction – it’s also a chance to welcome spring and say goodbye to winter. The holiday is a symbol of hope and a fresh start, inspiring people to embrace new beginnings and make the most of the new season.

Here is a photo I took of another Groundhog in Arkansas that I posted on Groundhog Day: Groundhog Day 2020

Technical:

• Location: Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge (Oklahoma)
• Date Taken: July 19, 2020
• Aperture: f5.6
• Shutter speed: 1/125 sec.
• ISO: 800
• Exposure Bias: +0.67 EV
• Exposure Mode: Aperture Priority
• Focal Length: 360 mm
• Lens: Canon EF 100-400 mm f/4.5-5.6 L IS II USM (attached with a Fringer EF-FX Pro)
• Camera: Fujifilm X-T3