Holtsville Hal’s Famous Prediction Set For Groundhog Day

From Brookhaven Wildlife and Ecology Center : Six more weeks of winter or an early spring? Hundreds will gather at the Brookhaven Wildlife and Ecology Center on Friday, Feb. 2, to hear Highway Superintendent Daniel P. Losquadro announce Holtsville Hal’s famous forecast

According to tradition, if a groundhog sees its shadow after stirring from hibernation on Groundhog Day, there will be six more weeks of winter weather; if not, spring should arrive early. Superintendent Losquadro will reveal Hal’s forecast at approximately 7:25 a.m.

“Our annual Groundhog Day celebration is an enjoyable tradition for many local families,” Superintendent Losquadro said. “Especially after last week’s blizzard, I’m hopeful Hal will predict an early spring, but either way this is a much-anticipated event each year in Brookhaven Town.”

"Groundhog Day at the Ecology Site has become an annual tradition that gets more popular year after year," said Supervisor Ed Romaine. "With the cold temperatures and snow we’ve been having, I hope Holtsville Hal doesn't see his shadow and we have an early spring."

Although he’s sure to be the center of attention, Holtsville Hal will not be the only animal available for viewing on Feb. 2. Following the ceremony, residents are welcome to enjoy some free hot chocolate and visit the Animal Preserve, which will be open from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.with more than 100 animals on display.

Gates will open at the Brookhaven Wildlife and Ecology Center Animal Preserve, 249 Buckley Road, Holtsville, at 7 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 2; parking is free. Residents are asked to arrive as close to 7 a.m. as possible to get a good view of Hal.

Image Courtesy of Brookhaven Wildlife and Ecology Center