With the seasons-altering Groundhog Day now just hours away, Manitoba citizens are mourning the sudden loss of their beloved groundhog, aptly named Winnipeg Willow. Willow passed away just days before the big reveal, the Independent reports, with Prairie Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre officials confirming the passing of the Canadian icon with a touching Facebook eulogy:
As the tradition (immortalized with charming gusto in the Bill Murray instaclassic Groundhog Day) goes, six more weeks of frigid winter tomfoolery are initiated when or if the selected groundhog sees his or her shadow on the morning of Feb. 2. Current weather projections quoted by USA Today reveal that Punxsutawney Phil, the famed master of Pennsylvania ceremonies, will most likely not see a shadow.
Rest in power, Winnipeg Willow.
