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Sir Walter Wally retires; Raleigh's Groundhog Day to feature activities but no ceremony
The NC Museum of Natural Sciences said that despite Sir Walter Wally's retirement, there will still be displays and activities at the museum on Thursday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
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RALEIGH, N.C. — After years of predicting the weather, Sir Walter Wally is retiring. The groundhog, who has been Raleigh's answer to Punxsutawney Phil, will not be looking for his shadow during a ceremony this year, the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences announced Monday.
Groundhog Day is Feb. 2, and it has been a national and regional tradition for a groundhog to predict whether there will be six more weeks of winter by seeing his shadow. No shadow, means an early spring is predicted.
The NC Museum of Natural Sciences said that despite Sir Walter Wally's retirement, there will still be displays and activities at the museum on Thursday form 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. There will be no live animals. The event is free to attend.
Exhibits will include:
- Animal Architects – Groundhogs burrow into the earth to create their home. Learn about other animals that build their homes in the ground.
- Animals in Winter – Groundhogs hibernate for winter, but how do other animals survive the cold? Meet some live ambassador animals and uncover their winter routines.
- Groundhog Hats – Make your own groundhog headbands.
- Groundhog Toss Game – These groundhogs think there are six more weeks of winter headed their way. Help them get back in their burrow.
- History of the Groundhog Day – Ever wonder how Groundhog Day came to be? You’ll learn about the history of Groundhog Day and get to meet one of the original animals that was used to predict an early (or late) spring.
- Rodents of the World – Learn cool facts about some of the variety of rodents around the world.
In Garner, Snerd the Groundhog will continue her annual duties on Thursday. Garner's Groundhog Day celebration will be held at White Deer Park, 2400 Aversboro Road, from 10 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. The event will include live animals, educational booths, Smokey Bear, storytime and crafts. Snerd will deliver her prediction to the Mayor on the stage at noon.
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