Groundhog Day 2023

Date

February 2

Time

9:00 a.m.

Gordy’s prediction was announced!

Gordy saw his shadow, so we can expect six more weeks of winter.

Resident groundhog, Gordy, readies for the spotlight to make his expert weather forecast for 2023! The ceremony is livestreamed on the Zoo’s Facebook Page at 9 a.m. and fans can watch the festivities from the warmth and comfort of their homes. Paws crossed for an early spring!

The ceremony is hosted by County Executive David Crowley and Zoo Director Amos Morris and takes place in the Northwestern Mutual Family Farm.

According to tradition, if it’s a sunny day and Gordy sees his shadow, he’ll return to his burrow for six more weeks of winter, but if he does not see a shadow … expect an early spring! Fun activities for the event include downloading a Groundhog Coloring Sheet to choose if Gordy will predict either six more weeks of winter or an early spring. Download a coloring sheet below and proudly display the artwork in a window to show support for Gordy.

 

 

The ceremony also includes Groundhog Bingo! Download a bingo card below and follow along during the festivities, marking off words as you hear the ceremony hosts say them. If your luck holds and you complete a bingo, submit your card to zoo.specialevents@milwaukeecountywi.gov. Several winners will be chosen randomly to win groundhog-themed goodies!

Choose your lucky Bingo Sheet:

Buttons:

 

Gordy was born in Indiana, and hand-raised. He’ll turn 5 years old on April 6 this year, and zookeepers comment Gordy has a “goofy and friendly personality.” He has become a favorite animal among Zoo visitors.

Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, are one of the largest members of the ground squirrel family. They are excellent swimmers and climbers and can make a whistling sound to alert fellow groundhogs. Groundhogs have two layers of fur, the outer layer to keep them dry and the inner layer for warmth.

Gordy’s favorite enrichment item is paper, and he loves to shred paper bags and newspapers to make a nest. His favorite foods are bananas and raw broccoli, and he’ll occasionally get peanuts as a high reward during training.

For more information on Groundhog Day at the Zoo, please email specialevents@milwaukeecountywi.gov.