Longer winter predicted-Bundle Up!

The world’s most famous weather-forecasting groundhog, Punxsutawney Phil, made his annual appearance at Gobbler’s Knob on February 2nd, but this time, with a special title: Dad! For the first time since 1886, Phil took his spot as the first prophetic groundhog father in history.

Phil and his partner, Phyllis, welcomed two adorable kits last March—Sunny and Shadow— making this year's Groundhog Day extra special. As Phil emerged from his burrow, the crowd held its breath. Would he see his shadow and retreat, signaling six more weeks of winter? Or would the forecast favor an early spring?

The answer came quickly—Daddy Phil saw his shadow! According to tradition, that means six more weeks of winter. The crowd erupted in cheers, celebrating both the extended cool weather and the newest additions to the groundhog family dynasty.

While Phil’s predictions are beloved by many, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reminds us that the furry forecaster’s accuracy is only around 35%. But who’s keeping track when there's a groundhog family to celebrate?

Phil isn’t the only animal forecaster in the game. His rivals include Staten Island Chuck in New York, General Beauregard "Beau" Lee in Georgia, Woodie the Woodchuck in Michigan, and—the largest and perhaps the most unusual competitor—Big Al, a 93-year-old alligator in Beaumont, Texas.

Big Al’s forecasting method is a bit different. Since he hasn’t eaten since November, he’s presented with a juicy steak on Groundhog Day. If Al takes a bite, it means his body temperature is warming up, signaling the arrival of spring. If he refuses, winter will linger.

This year, Al refused to eat the steak he was offered—agreeing with Phil’s prediction. So, despite the skeptics, when both a groundhog and an alligator tell you to keep your winter coats handy, it might just be time to believe.