Gen. Beau Lee Says It's Going to be a Long Winter

Punxsutawney Phil in Pennsylvania may have more notoriety in the groundhog-prediction game, but Gen. Beau Lee rules the business in these parts. He's been doing it for more than three decades.

Stephanie Reeves, spokesperson for the Yellow River Game Ranch, reported a record crowd for this year's gathering. Well over 400 people gathered in the mid-20 degree weather, compared to an average of 150. 

After exploring around for a little bit, the infamous groundhog saw his shadow at 7:33 a.m. The crowd was visibly disappointed to hear about the extended winter. Dr. Flavia Mullens, the special guest of the day, said she hoped it would be a "nice winter," with a little bit of snow. 

"I just think there's nothing quite as special as a snowy day in the South," said Mullens. "So I think we're entitled to one of those."

In the past, Gen. Lee has predicted quite a few early springs, so this one was a little bit of a surprise, according to manager Codi Reeves.

"We're hoping he's wrong on this one because we don't want to have cold weather that much longer," he added.

The "Yankee" groundhog, Punxsutawney Phil, on the other hand, did not see his shadow. So maybe it will warm up up north first? 

Check back with Patch for video and more pictures!

Were you at the Yellow River Game Ranch for Gen. Beau Lee's prediction? Let us know in the comments below, or share a photo on this article.

See related content:

• In Pictures: Yellow River Game Ranch Celebrates 50 Years
• Furry Forecaster Ready for Groundhog Day
• Groundhog Day: An Interview with the General
• Gen. Beau Knows: Lilburn Groundhog Expects Early Spring (2012)
• Beau Knows: Lilburn Groundhog Says We'll Have an Early Spring (2011)
• Get to know Gen. Beau Lee at the Yellow River Game Ranch