Groundhog Surprise: Mini Golf Employees Rescue Unexpected Prize from Claw Machine

In a quirky twist on the typical claw machine experience, employees at Meadows Family Fun Mini Golf in Duncansville, Pennsylvania, were stunned to discover a live groundhog nestled among the usual prizes. The Pennsylvania Game Commission shared this unusual incident on their Facebook page, revealing that the miniature golf staff found the furry creature trapped inside the arcade machine, sandwiched between stuffed toys.

After receiving a call about the situation, State Game Warden Salvadore Zaffuto arrived to investigate. He was greeted by the sight of the groundhog poking its head out from the collection of plush prizes. While it would have made for an amusing story to say that they rescued the animal using the claw, Zaffuto and the team opted for a safer method. They contacted the vending machine company, who unlocked the machine, allowing the warden to free the groundhog without harm.

Once liberated, the groundhog was released back into its natural habitat, unharmed and ready to continue its adventures. Groundhogs are common in Pennsylvania, often associated with local folklore and traditions, including the famous Punxsutawney Phil, who predicts the weather every Groundhog Day.
A Pennsylvania mini golf course staff discovered a live groundhog stuck inside a claw machine, prompting a rescue by a state game warden who safely released it back into the wild.
This unusual event highlights the fascinating interactions between wildlife and human environments, especially in regions where certain animals, like groundhogs, are prevalent.