News

February 2, 2026

Worcester, MA –  Earlier this morning at the EcoTarium, Worcester’s very own weather-predicting groundhog, Cornelia, emerged from her burrow and carefully looked around her habitat, sniffing at lettuce and other treats.  Mayor Joe Petty watched Cornelia carefully and then delivered the official Groundhog Day proclamation before a crowd of teachers, students, and community leaders. 

“Today, Cornelia has emerged from hibernation to search the ground at the EcoTarium for her shadow, as, like her ancestors before her, Cornelia has acquired the fascinating ability to predict the arrival of spring with 50% accuracy”, said Mayor Petty with a smile.  “I hereby decree that, on this sunny day, Cornelia did in fact see her shadow and thus proclaimed six more weeks of winter weather for the City of Worcester, Massachusetts. I urge all citizens to join in the Groundhog Day celebration across the City, and to keep your hats and mittens close at hand.” 

The crowd let out a loud moan at the news of more winter.

“No matter the weather, we always embrace the fun of this time-honored tradition,” said Noreen Smith, EcoTarium President & CEO. “This really is Cornelia’s day to shine. While most groundhogs were still asleep, Cornelia was hard at work analyzing the conditions and making her forecast.”

Guests were treated to a close-up experience with Cornelia, as her dedicated keeper shared fascinating insights into her daily care. “Cornelia is still shaking off her winter sleepiness, as at the EcoTarium, Cornelia does not fully hibernate, although she does slow down between October and March, eating less and sleeping for most of the day. She managed to wake up to enjoy breakfast with all of us this morning. She enjoyed a spread of greens and vegetables. After eating, she quickly made herself comfortable again in her toasty nest!”