MILWAUKEE — If you recall, the Milwaukee County Zoo had a fill-in groundhog in 2018: Polar bear Snow Lilly made the expert forecast.
Snow Lilly did an admirable job because the zoo's animal collection did not include a resident woodchuck after Wynter passed away in 2017 at age 9.
Gordy, a 10-month-old male groundhog that has been at the zoo since last May, is ready to make his forecasting debut at 10:30 a.m. Feb. 2.
If it is sunny and Gordy sees his shadow, he will return to his burrow for six more weeks of winter. However, if he does not see his shadow, tradition says an early spring is on its way.
The Groundhog Day celebration also will include a free raffle in which guests can guess Gordy's weight. The winner will receive a groundhog-themed headband, slippers and groundhog plush toy.
The zoo is hosting its Family Free Day, sponsored by North Shore Bank, on Feb. 2. Visitors will receive free admission, but parking, concessions and attractions fees apply.
For more information, call the zoo at 414-256-5466.
