Did Balzac Billy predict an early spring or a longer winter?

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.

"Traditionally, on February 2, various groundhogs across North America are consulted by local public figures (often a mayor) for an annual weather prediction. If the groundhog ‘sees its shadow’, it means six more weeks of winter. If the groundhog doesn’t see its shadow, spring will come early," mentioned the GroundHog-Day website.

Predictions date back to 1886.