From Quartz.
PETA urged retiring Punxsutawney Phil in favor of a hologram, citing animal welfare, a proposal that challenges a longstanding Groundhog Day tradition.
In a letter to Punxsutawney Groundhog Club president Tom Dunkel, PETA offered a state-of-the-art 3D projection of Punxsutawney Phil if the animal is moved to a sanctuary. The group says a hologram could replace the groundhog at Groundhog Day and reduce stress from crowds and noise.
Founder Ingrid Newkirk noted holographic performances as precedent. PETA also pressed Woodstock, Ill., to replace Woodstock Willie with a hologram or other alternative. NOAA records show Phil’s forecast accuracy at about 35%, while Staten Island Chuck is listed at 85%.
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