2022 Groundhog Day Prediction At NJ Zoo: Here’s What Edwina Said

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — An early spring and the Los Angeles Rams in the Super Bowl. That was Wednesday’s call from Edwina, the new weather-predicting groundhog at the Turtle Back Zoo in Essex County.

For Groundhog Day 2022, the zoo marked a milestone in the annual tradition, bidding a fond retirement to longtime prognosticator Essex Ed, and welcoming his replacement, Essex Edwina. Read More: 'Essex Ed' Has Seen His Last Groundhog Day At Turtle Back Zoo

During the 10 a.m. event, Edwina did not see her shadow, which according to the myth, means spring weather is expected to come six weeks early (watch the video below).

Her prediction contrasts with the Pennsylvania-based Punxsutawney Phil, who saw his shadow, which means “six more weeks of winter.” Read More: Groundhog Day 2022: Did Punxsutawney Phil See His Shadow?

Essex County also adds a local tradition to their annual event, asking their resident groundhog to pick the winner of the upcoming Super Bowl. This year, for her debut prediction, Edwina chose the Los Angeles Rams to win Super Bowl LVI.

Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo said he disagreed with Edwina’s Super Bowl pick … but is looking forward to an early spring.

Essex Edwina’s full prediction follows below.

Hello Essex Family! So happy you could attend,

I’m nervous, but excited, to take over for my friend.

Ed joined the Great Resignation, he cares no more for changing weather,

He’s got a beach house down in Boca, where the snowbirds hang together.

Now, though I’m new to the job, my prognostications are true,

It’s not just about shadows, there’s more to what I do.

Models and Maps, hours studying in my hut,

But for this first prognostication, I’m gonna go with my gut.

I see tulips and daffodils, cherry blossoms too,

Sunshine and warm weather, that’s what’s in store for you.

Early Spring is in the forecast, under this ice,

So let’s look forward, not back, that’s my 2022 advice.

Now that’s out of the way, I’ve got football to cheer,

Rams’ defense will secure the win, that’s my prediction this year.

Send local news tips and correction requests to eric.kiefer@patch.com. Sign up for Patch email newsletters. Learn more about posting announcements or events to your local Patch site.