It’s an important question, to be sure: will we have six more weeks of winter? But our fun way of finding out is a bit, let’s say, unique. The celebration of Groundhog Day every February 2 stands out as a cultural phenomenon. While most people realize it’s all in fun, it’s still a LOT of fun to think a groundhog is really predicting the next month-and-a-half’s weather.
Punxsatawney Phil may be the most famous groundhog meteorologist, but there are a few other famous ones, as well. Chattanooga Chuck is, obviously, from Tennessee. Buckeye Chuck represents Ohio. French Creek Freddie hails from West Virginia and Essex Eddie is New Jersey resident. Jimmy the Groundhog lives up north in Wisconsin. Chuck is a common name in the groundhog community, and Long Island Chuck is a weather prognosticator, too. These are just a few of the regional checkers of shadows!
The groundhog actually has several names. Scientifically, it’s known as Marmota monax. The proper English name is marmot. It’s also known as a whistlepig in parts of the USA, particuarly in the South.
Of course, these critters should enjoy their day. But there’s no reason to limit it to a day, either. They look cute (although they are rodents) and that cuteness makes them great to celebrate with decorations and toys. While they’re not ideal as a pet for most people, there’s no reason not to add a stuffed toy or other groundhog item to your home.
Douglas Chuckwood Groundhog Plush Stuffed Animal
There’s something about this cute guy that remind us a lot of the groundhog from the great movie Caddyshack. He has that same friendly but mischievous look as the pesky guy that Bill Murray tried to eliminate from the golf course.
This guy seems alert and alive, aware of what’s going on and ready to get moving.
It’s soft even though the “fur” does look bristly like a real groundhog.
This stuffed toy measures 11 inches tall. At its widest, it’s probably about 8 inches around.
The surface is hand-washable.
Yellow-Bellied Marmot Stuffed Animal
The yellow-bellied marmot is a different species but still a member of the genus Marmota. And this guy is so cute, we just had to include this close cousin here!
Tall and alert, this guy looks like he could be in the wild, standing guard for any threats. However, he’s super-friendly and eager for hugs.
The figure measures just under 11 inches tall. If you measure from the tip of the tail to the top of the head, it’s about 14 inches.
It’s soft and pleasant, and could pass for a woodchuck if you really want it to; most people aren’t going to recognize the difference. Of course, there will probably be a 4-year-old who will quickly point out the differences!
The surface can be hand washed.
Douglas Mr G. Groundhog Plush Stuffed Animal
Mr. G, he’s called, and he’s a fantastic groundhog that will bring warmth and cheer for Groundhog Day or any time!
He’s a little smaller than the plushies above, measuring just 7 inches tall. He sits back on his haunches with the rest of his body upright. A small weight, probably a beanbag, is inside to help keep him erect.
His soft fur and polyester stuffing make him a cuddly favorite. He comes from Douglas, who are also the makers of the first entry here. He’s also extremely lightweight, at about a third of an ounce.
He’s recommended for children 24 months and up.
Papo Marmot Figurine
Here we have a tiny figurine that seem to be made from resin. It’s highly detailed, although it measures just two inches high.
It’s hand-painted and great for a diorama or other small decorative use, or as part of a child’s animal toy collection.
No, it’s not cuddly. But it’s a great-looking piece for a shelf, a desktop, or elsewhere. If you love groundhogs, you’ll definitely want to make this guy part of your collection!
Ty Punxsutawney Phil 2004 Beanie Baby
It was the mid-1990s when Beanie Babies took off, but even after their peak, Ty continued to make the adorable little stuffed toys. And this guy is part of their celebrity animals editions from 2004!
Punxsutawney Phil did indeed get his own Beanie Baby, complete with formal attire, although he rarely dresses up like this, even on Groundhog Day.
This figure is 6 1/2 inches tall. It lives up to the typical quality from Ty in terms of both construction and incomparable cuteness.
Wrapping It Up
Groundhogs might be the only animal with a widely-recognized “day” of its own, at least in the US. And they are really cute, too. Get a plushie or other groundhog figurine for yourself or for another fan of these famous critters!
