Throw up your ‘bear’ claws, cheer as the Zoo’s Groundhog gurus predict the changing seasons

 

WHAT: At the Oklahoma City Zoo, Groundhog Day goes to the bears! It’s time again for the OKC Zoo’s bear ambassadors to get the ‘fur-1-1’ on the changing seasons with their annual   prediction–six more weeks of winter or an early spring.

 

WHEN: Sunday, February 2, 2020, at 10 a.m.

 

WHERE: Big Rivers building in the Zoo’s Oklahoma Trails habitat

 

DETAILS: With help from the OKC Zoo’s weather-aware bears, you won’t need to seek this year’s Groundhog Day prediction elsewhere! Sponsored by Bob Moore Subaru, this annual event includes a themed enrichment activity for the bears to engage with as they put their fur-casting skills to the test. Because the Zoo does not have groundhogs in its animal population, the bears step in as official Groundhog Day gurus. Activities are scheduled to take place at 10 a.m. in the Big Rivers building in the Zoo's Oklahoma Trails and are free with admission. Guests will enjoy free coffee and doughnuts while supplies last, as they take part in this wild weather tradition!

 

OKC Zoo’s Groundhog Day Highlights:

 

  • The event is fun for all ages–featuring a ‘bears of the world’ information station and kids’ game, a Wild Encounter giveaway and photo opportunities, courtesy of Bob Moore Subaru. New this year: toss coins for conservation! By voting for which season the bears will predict, guests can contribute to the Zoo’s Round Up for Conservation program.

 

  • The OKC Zoo’s designated “town crier” returns to add a throwback feel to the festivities as he reads the official proclamation in the spirit of early Groundhog Day celebrations.

 

  • Throughout its history, the OKC Zoo has enlisted the help of several Groundhog Day delegates including a bison, prairie dog and pot-bellied pigs.

 

  • The OKC Zoo is home to black bears, Maynard and Woody; and grizzly bear brothers, Will and Wiley.

 

  • Bears were originally used to predict the weather in Europe but, when the population of bears decreased, a badger or “groundhog” filled in. Hence the name, Groundhog Day.

 

Let the bears predict! Located at the crossroads of I-44 and I-35, the Oklahoma City Zoo is a proud member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the American Alliance of Museums, Oklahoma City’s Adventure District and an Adventure Road partner. Hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Regular admission is $11 for adults and $8 for children ages 3-11 and seniors ages 65 and over. Children two and under are admitted free. Effective Saturday, February 1, regular admission is $12 for adults and $9 for children ages 3-11 and seniors ages 65 and over. Children two and under are admitted free. Stay connected with the Zoo on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram and by visiting Our Stories. To learn more about other happenings, call (405) 424-3344 or visit okczoo.org.