**** DNR Release
Shubenacadie Sam to Rule on Winter
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Shubenacadie Sam, Nova Scotia’s beloved groundhog, will make the annual Groundhog Day prediction on Sunday, February 2, at Shubenacadie Wildlife Park.
Nova Scotians are invited to join Sam in person or watch the event livestreamed on the park’s Facebook page. Sam will be joined by a groundhog mascot to help celebrate the annual tradition.
“Our annual Groundhog Day celebration holds a special place in the hearts of many Nova Scotia families,” said Natural Resources Minister Tory Rushton. “Groundhog Day shares the spotlight with World Wetlands Day, and the wildlife park is excited to offer engaging activities that celebrate wetlands and their incredible biodiversity.”
Folklore says that if the groundhog sees its shadow, winter will last for six more weeks. If there is no shadow, it is a sign of an early spring.
World Wetlands Day, also on February 2, recognizes the importance of wetlands in supporting biodiversity and mitigating the effects of floods and droughts. The park will celebrate the day with displays and activities to raise awareness; visitors will also have the opportunity to explore and learn about restored wetlands.
The park will be open following the event and will close at 3 p.m.
Quick Facts:
– the groundhog’s scientific name is Marmota monax, one of 14 types of marmots found in the Northern Hemisphere
– Shubenacadie Wildlife Park is open only on weekends during winter, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
– World Wetlands Day was established by the United Nations and is celebrated internationally
– Nova Scotia is home to three designated wetlands of international importance
Additional Resources:
Shubenacadie Wildlife Park:
– website: http://wildlifepark.novascotia.ca
– Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShubenacadieWildlifePark
– Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shubenacadiewildlifepark/
– X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/ShubenacadieSam
World Wetlands Day: https://www.worldwetlandsday.org/
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