While many classes around the country watch Punxsutawney Phil being ripped from his warm home in front of millions of people, the students from Avon Heritage North discussed this history of groundhog day and the physical characteristics of the Marmota Monax (groundhog to you and me) with the Carnegie Natural History Museum.
Avon students were surprised to hear that groundhogs normally do not come out today, as they discussed the hibernation process of Northern American animals. The students discussed the hibernation strategies, physical and behavioral adaptations that help them survive in habitats ranging from mature forests to hayfields.
After this program the students have a better understanding on how this amazing animal has been so successful in our area and that holiday traditions can conflict with science.
On a side note Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow this morning, forecasting six more weeks of winter. But we all know that this is just a myth…
Thanks Carnegie Natural History Museum!
Links to more information on Groundhog Day
Groundhog.com
http://www.groundhog.com/
The official tourism Web site of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
http://groundhog.visitpa.com/
Groundhog 202A fun look at the holiday tradition
www.groundhog202.com/
NOBLE: North of Boston Library Exchange
http://www.noblenet.org/year/groundhog.html
