PETA to Punxsutawney: Retire the Groundhog, Use a Hologram

The animal rights group PETA has proposed a major change to the U.S. tradition of Groundhog Day. It wants Punxsutawney Phil, the famous weather-predicting groundhog, replaced with a high-tech hologram. In a new statement, PETA suggested using a 3D projection to give the annual weather forecast. The group argues this would allow Phil and his successors to live undisturbed. "Let Phil and his family retire," a PETA representative said. The organization believes a hologram would be a more humane and modern approach. The annual event in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, draws thousands every February 2. According to folklore, if Phil sees his shadow, six more weeks of winter will follow. Local organizers of the event have not yet responded to PETA's proposal. The tradition has continued with a live groundhog for over 130 years.