Groundhog Finds New Home in Brooklyn
This past Saturday, a Pennsylvania groundhog, known as Wolfgang, made a splash in Brooklyn. He was the center of attention in McCarren Park, where he spotted his shadow in front of a lively crowd of hipsters, delivering the weather forecast directly to Curtis Sliwa, a former mayoral candidate. Sliwa jokingly mentioned he might dress up as a groundhog for next year’s event.
Wolfgang’s prediction? Six more weeks of winter. The audience, filled with enthusiastic fans, chanted Sliwa’s name and eagerly sought his autographs. At one point, he greeted the crowd with, “You’re glossing over me!” referencing his debate with the current mayor, Zoran Mamdani. “We’d like to thank everyone for keeping this American tradition alive,” he added.
This unusual event is in its second year and was organized by young political journalist Riley Callanan, who shared with the Post that she spent $2,250 to rent the groundhog from an animal service. Sliwa, known for his love of animals, was dubbed the event’s “shadow star,” drawing a connection with younger New Yorkers who see him as a symbol of the city.
While rumors of changes for next year stirred excitement, they were also met with controversy. There was a clash with a group of animal rights activists who voiced their concerns during the event. Sliwa suggested a “look-alike” contest for groundhogs as a fun addition to the celebration. “Next year, I’ll be here to audition, and together we’ll decide on the shadow situation,” he remarked, hinting at potential changes after discussions with animal rights advocates.
Despite the spirited atmosphere, Callanan mentioned her desire to stick with using real woodchucks. She explained her motivation for starting the annual Groundhog Day gathering was to bring some lightness during what can often feel like the “darkest time of the year.” “It keeps the fun alive,” she said, reflecting on the goal of the event.
Just hours prior to the festivities, groups like NYCLASS and Humane Long Island appealed to the organizers to reconsider the event, citing worries over animal welfare. They argued that groundhogs hibernate naturally in winter and that exposing them to loud crowds could be harmful. The statement mentioned past incidents of mishaps during similar events, including one involving the late Staten Island Chuck.
In light of these criticisms, Sliwa, who has been proactive about animal welfare, acknowledged ignorance about the groundhog’s background. However, he dismissed the idea of keeping the animal after the event. “I know I’m not an expert in handling groundhogs,” he candidly said, adding a light touch of humor. “I’m just here to see if he sees my shadow… unlike Bill de Blasio, I wouldn’t make a blunder.”
NYCLASS’s Executive Director, Edita Bernkrant, mentioned that the young organizers had previously committed to not using live animals again during the winter celebration. Yet Callanan stood firm, expressing hope to bring a real groundhog back next year despite protests. As she reflected on the day, she found joy in meeting the handlers and hearing about Wolfgang’s care. “He was rescued as a baby after an unfortunate incident, and he loves PB&J,” she shared, appreciating the attention given to the animal during the ceremony.
