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Groundhog shmoundhog, Grandfather Mountain animals say bring on more winter

Last Updated on March 26, 2022 2:49 pm

Though Grandfather Mountain was closed today due to inclement weather, the animals are thoroughly enjoying the snow, including one of the resident otters who has her own thoughts on Groundhog Day. Videos of some of the animals can also be found below.

Groundhog shmoundhog. When it comes to six more weeks of winter, Uno the river otter says, “Bring it!” Uno is one of three North American river otter rescues who reside on Grandfather Mountain. Otters are specially adapted for dealing with cold, icy winters, as they have a very thick fur coat and layer of fat to help keep them warm. For swimming in such conditions, their skin produces oils that help to waterproof their fur, and their fur traps in air for extra insulation — sort of like a natural scuba suit. Due to these special adaptations, Uno never has to worry about getting cold and can play in the snow and swim in his icy pond to his little heart’s content — regardless of the Punxsutawney Phil's prediction. Animal lovers can symbolically adopt Uno and his pals or send them a special gift by visiting www.grandfather.com. Photo by Chloe Brady | Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation

Oscar, one of Grandfather Mountain's resident river otter rescues, sports a snow-dappled snout after a play session in the snow. Photo by Chloe Brady | Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation

Trinity, one of Grandfather Mountain's resident Western cougars, takes pause — or paws — to admire the winter snowscape. Photo by Chloe Brady | Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation

Trinity, one of Grandfather Mountain's Western cougar rescues, explores her snow-covered habitat, after the Linville, N.C., nature park was — and continues to be — blanketed in snow. Photo by Chloe Brady | Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation

One of Grandfather Mountain's resident elk enjoys a snowy sunrise in his environmental wildlife habitat. Photo by Chloe Brady | Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation

Grandfather Mountain's resident elk — Doc, Merle and Watson — gather for breakfast on a snowy morning. To see the animals and more at Grandfather Mountain, book your visit at www.grandfather.com. Photo by Chloe Brady | Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation

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