Chuckles X, Connecticut's Official Groundhog, Dies

MANCHESTER, CT — Chuckles X, the beloved official state groundhog, has died, officials from the Lutz Children's Museum said.

Chuckles X arrived at the museum about two years ago and had ongoing battles with several chronic medical conditions, which prevented her from being released into the wild, officials said.

Various "Chuckles" have predicted the coming of spring to the people of Connecticut over the years at live pee-dawn ceremonies at the Lutz . The museum is typically crowded with visitors and the media on Groundhog Day each year as Chuckles whispers her prediction into the Mayor's ear.

Chuckles X was particularly well-liked.

"She will be remembered fondly by the museum volunteers, her friends at Bolton Veterinary Hospital, and her thousands of adoring fans," Lutz officials said.

Manchester Jay Moran always took pride in his inheriting the ability to speak and understand groundhog.

"I'm sad to hear of the passing of Chuckles X," he said. "She worked very closely with me. She was my best weather friend. I know she was adored my the children that got to know her and she will missed my many here in Manchester and across the state."

The search has already begun for the next Connecticut State Groundhog, officials said. The museum only accepts non-releasable wildlife referred by veterinarians or licensed rehabilitation facilities.

Chuckles X (Lutz Children's Museum)

An outpouring of emotion followed the announcement on the Lutz Facebook page. Here are some of the condolences:

• "(She) was our symbol for Groundhogs Day! (She) did (her) job for all the children and now is (her) time to go to groundhog heaven!"
• "Sad day for Manchester and the staff."
• "I will miss Chuckles."