Toronto-based NorthStar Gaming is offering players the opportunity to bet on Groundhog Day for the first time ever in Ontario, via its NorthStar Bets platform.

The popular North American tradition – observed annually on Feb 2 – derives from an old Germanic tale that each year a groundhog will poke its head up out of its den around this time.

As the legend goes, should the groundhog see its shadow upon emerging from its home, Canadians can expect six more weeks of winter. However, if the groundhog is unable to locate its shadow, Canadians can anticipate an early spring.

Bettors in Ontario will now be able to place their bets on the outcome of its appearance and whether there will be an early spring or not, with starting odds from NorthStar Bets favouring an early spring prediction by its residential groundhog, Wiarton Willie.

Rod Black, Brand Ambassador for NorthStar Bets, said: “I’ve had the opportunity to attend and cover countless major events across Canada and interview some of the biggest names in Canadian sports.

“I’m thrilled to head to the picturesque town of Wiarton to check Groundhog Day off my bucket list while providing reports and other on-site content for NorthStar Bets.

“This day is special for many Canadians and what better way to celebrate coming together than placing a friendly wager on Ontario’s infamous groundhog?”

Forecasters have been predicting residents will see up to four hours of sunshine per day in February. The current Groundhog Day forecast in Wiarton calls for a high chance of precipitation, cool temperatures and mostly cloudy skies in the Wiarton area Thursday morning.