Nature of Wildworks Invites the Community to Join a Groundhog Day Contest

By: Sierra News Posted On: January 26, 2026 View: 1

COARSEGOLD, CA – As Groundhog Day approaches, Nature of Wildworks, in Coarsegold, is inviting the community to take part in a lighthearted seasonal tradition with a local twist. The wildlife care center has launched a Groundhog Day–inspired contest centered on one of its most popular residents, Murray the Groundhog—cousin to the famous Punxsutawney Phil.

Murry the Groundhog at The Nature of Wildworks

Each year, Groundhog Day brings with it the age-old question: will the groundhog see his shadow? According to tradition, if the groundhog emerges from its burrow on a sunny day and sees its shadow, winter will linger for six more weeks. If clouds obscure the shadow, an early spring is said to be on the way. At Nature of Wildworks, Murray is ready to make his own prediction, and the public is invited to guess when that moment will happen.

Participants can submit their prediction for when Murray will see his shadow between January 20 and March 15, 2026. Each date entered costs $10, and every entry doubles as an opportunity to visit the lower portion of the Nature of Wildworks care center—an area typically not open to general visitors.

Those who participate will have the chance to see several notable animal residents, including Tioga, a young mountain lion, and Bear, a young Canadian lynx. Of course, meeting Murray himself is part of the experience, making the contest appealing not only to fans of folklore but also to animal lovers of all ages.

The prize for correctly predicting the date Murray sees his shadow is a guided tour for two adults of the lower portion of the facility. Beyond the potential to win, organizers say the contest is designed to be a fun way to celebrate Groundhog Day while supporting the ongoing care of the animals at Nature of Wildworks.

“Groundhog Day is all about tradition and fun, and we wanted to create something interactive that also helps people connect with wildlife,” the organization shared in its announcement. Proceeds from the contest help support animal care and educational programs at the center.

Nature of Wildworks encourages residents of the mountain communities and visitors alike to take part, celebrate the season, and test their prediction skills. Whether winter sticks around or spring arrives early, participants are guaranteed a memorable experience with some of the center’s most charismatic animals.

Voting is now open, and those interested can submit their predictions online. For more information or to enter the contest, visit Nature of Wildworks and click “Vote Today.”