COARSEGOLD, CA — The Groundhog Day–inspired contest at Nature of Wildworks has come to an early and decisive conclusion, after Murray the Groundhog made his seasonal appearance ahead of schedule — and delivered a classic winter forecast.

According to an announcement from the wildlife care center, Murray officially woke up on January 27 and saw his shadow, signaling six more weeks of winter under Groundhog Day tradition. Because Murray made his appearance before February 2, the contest ended immediately.

Nature of Wildworks had invited the public to submit predictions on the date Murray would see his shadow, with proceeds supporting animal care and educational programming. Participants also received access to the lower portion of the facility, an area not typically open to general visitors.

In its update, the organization addressed a common question about the timing.

While Groundhog Day is celebrated annually on February 2, staff explained that real groundhogs do not follow calendars and may wake intermittently during winter. Groundhogs are considered true hibernators, but they do not remain continuously asleep for the entire season. During milder winter periods, it is normal for them to briefly awaken to move around or eat.

“Murray just happened to wake up early this year — and accidentally spoil a contest,” the center shared.

Along with the announcement, Nature of Wildworks provided a brief educational overview of seasonal animal dormancy:

• Hibernation refers to a deep sleep used by warm-blooded animals, such as groundhogs, to conserve energy during cold weather.

• Estivation is a dormancy period some animals enter during extreme heat.

• Brumation describes a slowed metabolic state in cold-blooded animals, including reptiles and amphibians, during cold conditions.

All three strategies help animals survive challenging environmental conditions by conserving energy, though they differ by species and season.

Nature of Wildworks also announced the winner of the contest: Janet Heinritz-Canterbury, who correctly predicted the timing of Murray’s shadow sighting. The prize includes a guided tour for two adults of the lower portion of the facility.

Staff thanked everyone who participated and shared their predictions, noting that the strong response reflected the community’s enthusiasm for wildlife and seasonal traditions.

Although Murray’s early awakening means winter is expected to linger, organizers say the event successfully fulfilled its goal of combining education, fun, and support for the center’s resident animals.

More information about Nature of Wildworks, its educational programs, and upcoming events can be found on the organization’s website.

Here’s the previous story about the Groundhog Day–inspired contest staring Murray…
Nature of Wildworks Invites the Community to Join a Groundhog Day Contest