Alberta’s groundhog ‘Balzac Billy’ predicts early spring

Balzac Billy, otherwise known as the “Prairie Prognosticator” has predicted an early spring this year.

Last year the mascot for the Town of Balzac predicted six more weeks of winter for Alberta. In 2023, the fun-loving creature called for an early spring for the province.

The groundhog’s prediction rate is currently at 42 per cent, according to stats from the Weather Network.

And it’s not just Balzac Billy — Ontario’s Wiarton Willie also didn’t see his shadow Sunday morning.

Nova Scotia’s Shubenacadie Sam and Quebec’s Fred la Marmotte saw their shadows, predicting a long winter ahead.

Last year, Balzac Billy emerged from his burrow and spotted his shadow, predicting an extended winter.