Wiarton Willie actually passed away months ago
South Bruce Peninsula Mayor Janice Jackson announcing yesterday, the groundhog died of a tooth abscess prior to last year’s ceremony.
The admission confirms the rumours that began last Groundhog Day when a pre-recorded video without Willie was sent out by the municipality that morning.
A hat took his place, with the mayor announcing the weather prediction.
Next year the mayor promises Ground Hog Day will return as a live in person event and although she says they searched far and wide for another albino groundhog, a brown one will take Willie’s place.
But why South Bruce officials took so long to fess up, remains a mystery.

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