Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has firmly rejected calls from PETA to retire Punxsutawney Phil, the famous groundhog responsible for predicting the arrival of spring. In response to the animal rights group’s demand that the state end the long-standing tradition, Shapiro made it clear that the annual event will continue as planned.
PETA has argued that using a live groundhog for the February 2 tradition is outdated and inhumane, suggesting that the state replace Phil with an animal-free method, such as an AI-generated prediction. The organization contends that keeping the groundhog in captivity and subjecting him to public spectacle is unnecessary and stressful for the animal.
Shapiro dismissed the demand outright, defending the tradition as a cherished cultural event that brings together thousands of visitors each year. The Punxsutawney Groundhog Club, which cares for Phil year-round, has repeatedly assured the public that the animal is well cared for and experiences no harm.
The annual Groundhog Day ceremony has been held in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, for over a century, drawing crowds and media attention from around the world. According to local officials, any attempt to remove Phil would be met with strong resistance from residents who see the event as a significant part of the state’s heritage.
Despite PETA’s continued opposition, the groundhog’s handlers have reiterated that the tradition will carry on, with Phil set to make his latest winter weather prediction as scheduled. The governor’s response makes it clear that, for now, the famous rodent will remain the face of one of America’s most beloved seasonal traditions.