Punxsutawney Phil? Pshaw. Burrowing owl to predict the brrrr

A unique and creative Cape Coral tradition is around the corner, as the city’s bird will once again serve as the prognosticator of weather to come.

The burrowing owl will be the center of attention as the Cape Coral Friends of Wildlife and Cape Coral Parks and Recreation Department host the fourth annual “Ground Owl Day” on Tuesday, Feb. 2, at 10 a.m. at Pelican Baseball Complex, in what is the city’s take on Groundhog Day. The burrowing owl is expected to see his shadow, in turn signaling six more weeks of “winter” in sunny Southwest Florida — weather that residents have become quite acclimated to over recent weeks.

“This is a fun event that’s all about burrowing owl education and the kick-off to our Burrowing Owl Festival and owl nesting season,” said CCFW Vice President Pascha Donaldson.