5 Signs The Utica Peregrine Falcon Is Our Punxsutawney Phil

While we are truly starting to receive the worst part of winter, spring is around the corner soon. Each year we look to a groundhog nationwide, but here in Utica we need to start looking at the Peregrine falcon. Here's 5 signs that our falcon is the cities Punxsutawney Phil. 

1) The Falcon Comes Out To Open Mic Night At The Tram

During the winter, the falcon generally keeps a low profile. However, during spring, the falcon spreads its wings and flies over to The Tram on Sunday's and performs in the open mic night. Usually the bird is spotted performing after 9, only when spring is about a week away. Usually the Falcon will sing music from The Byrds, and also just make falcon sounds for 10 minutes to the sound of drums and guitar.

2) The Falcon Joins The Mayor On Three Consecutive Sweeps

Generally the Mayor is out and about cleaning up the city on various clean sweeps. When the Falcon joins the Mayor for three consecutive weeks, we know spring is on the way. When the Falcon only shows up for two, get ready to break back out the shovels. Two weeks means snow is on the way. It's a game of patience waiting for that third week.

3) The Falcon Is Seen Hovering Over Nicky Doodles

When spring arrives, all over Central New York ice cream shops open back up. When you spot the Utica Falcon hovering over Nicky Doodles in Utica, that means spring has arrived. The Falcon is generally the first in line, and usually makes the biggest mess. Be sure to lend him a napkin for a season of good luck.

4) The Falcon Throws Out The First Pitch At Murnane Field

When spring finally arrives, we get another amazing season of baseball. Locally, we enjoy games at Donovan Stadium. The first true sign spring is here, you will catch the Falcon throwing out several pitches at Murnane field. The Falcon can be spotted practicing during the last few weeks of winter to get ready for the first pitch of the season in spring.

5) The Falcon Pours A Glass Of Water From The Worlds Largest Watering Can

When the snow and ice melts, the water is ready to be poured at the Utica Zoo's world's largest watering can. Who gets the first glass of non-ice water? The Utica Falcon! Expect to find the Falcon hovering over the Utica Zoo a few days prior to spring.