One of the oldest and strangest holidays is Ground Hog Day. First observed in the 16th century, by German speaking people. In 1887 the Pennsylvania Dutch believed in the weather predication ability of the ground hog. The ground hog or wood chuck would emerge from hibernation on the same day, yearly. If he saw his shadow, he would return to his burrow and there would be 6 more weeks of winter.
In 1887, Punxsutawney a Indian name meaning sand flies, was a summer encampment that became the center of ground hog activities.
Punxsutawney after the Indian name for this area in Pennsylvania, is translated as winged fleas. The terrain the animals prefer contains bushes and woods. With clear sights to see other approaching animals. The ground hog will protect his territory from other males to care for the new babies.
The ground hog, known as Phil made his debut over 130 years ago. Though the lifespan of a ground hog 14 years, Punxsutawney has lived for over 130 years.
Since the movie ,”Ground Hog Day,” many municipalities have celebrated this day to escape from the doldrums of winter.
In addition to the observing of the ground hog prediction of winter’s length. A pancake breakfasts featuring the pancakes in the shape of the ground hog with banana slices for ears, almond eyes and chocolate pieces with marshmallows decorating the backs is offered.
Celebrations, can include parades led by a human dressed as the ground hog. Skits are popular where the snow and ground hog are blown off the stage by a strong spring wind. Crafts featuring pop up ground hogs are offered for children to make.
Ground hogs, also known as whistle pigs or woodchucks are a type of ground squirrel. They prefer low lands near bushes and edges of woodlands. The name Whistle Pig comes from the high pitch sound a ground hog will produce when protecting his territory.
The ground hog is not a good predictor of the weather. He have been correct about 40 percent of the time. If he was weather reporter, he would be out of a job.
Other activities have included a Ground Hog marathon, and nature walks.
Whatever way you choose to mark this day, know that spring is only four to six weeks away. Looking forward to the green shoots of wild grasses and mint plants that ground hogs savor.
Indications of Spring
Green shoots
in sunny spot
long stem reaching to light
bell shaped flowers along stems
dew drops
Carolaspot@aol.com January 29, 2024
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traveling up and down the blind highway 