What is what does it mean when a groundhog sees its shadow?

According to folklore, if a <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/groundhog">groundhog</a> emerges from its burrow on <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Groundhog%20Day">Groundhog Day</a> (February 2nd) and sees its <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/shadow">shadow</a> due to clear weather, it will retreat back into its burrow, and winter will continue for six more weeks. This belief is based on the idea that the groundhog is frightened by its own shadow and seeks shelter from the continuing cold.

Conversely, if the groundhog does not see its shadow due to cloudy conditions, it will supposedly take this as a sign that winter is ending soon, and it will stay out of its burrow, indicating an early spring.

It is important to note that there is no scientific basis for this tradition. The behavior of groundhogs is primarily influenced by biological factors related to hibernation and breeding cycles, and weather patterns are complex and not predictable based on a groundhog's shadow. The event is purely symbolic and a fun tradition.