March 19 - Swallows Return to San Juan Capistrano Day
The miracle of the "Swallows" of Capistrano takes place each year at the Mission San Juan Capistano, on March 19th, St. Joseph's Day.
As the little birds wing their way back to the most famous Mission in California, the village of San Juan Capistrano takes on a fiesta air and the visitors from all parts of the world, and all walks of life, gather in great numbers to witness the "miracle" of the return of the swallows.
Each year the "Scout Swallows" precede the main flock by a few days and it seems to be their chief duty to clear the way for the main flock to arrive at the "Old Mission" of Capistrano.
With the arrival of early dawn on St. Joseph's Day, the little birds begin to arrive and begin rebuilding their mud nests, which are clinging to the ruins of the old stone church of San Juan Capistrano. The arches of the two story, high vaulted Chapel were left bare and exposed, as the roof collapsed during the earthquake of 1812.
This Chapel, said to be the largest and most ornate in any of the missions, now has a more humble destiny - that of housing the birds that St. Francis loved so well.
After the summer spent within the sheltered walls of the Old Mission in San Juan Capistrano, the swallows take flight again, and on the Day of San Juan, October 23, they leave after circling the Mission bidding farewell to the "JEWEL OF ALL MISSIONS" San Juan Capistrano, California.
March 1st Day of Spring - MeatOut
The occasion is Meatout, the world's largest and oldest annual grassroots diet education campaign. Every spring, thousands of caring Meatout supporters educate their communities and ask their friends, families, and neighbors to pledge to "kick the meat habit (at least for a day) and explore a wholesome, compassionate diet of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains."
Visit the official MeatOut website for more information.
March 19 - Poultry Day
Which came first ... the chicken or the egg?
Poultry Day celebrates chicken, turkey and other birds that we commonly consume.
Celebrate with bacon and eggs for breakfast ... and remember that the egg is all in a day's work for the chicken, but the bacon is a lifetime committment for the pig!
March 3rd week - National Poison Prevention Week
During National Poison Prevention Week, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals / National Animal Poison Control Center (ASPCA/NAPCC) has an objective to educate pet owners about the importance of poison safety.
The Center is the first and only 24-hour poison control hotline for animals in North America. Professionals are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Veterinarians and pet owners needing advice reach a staff of 16 veterinarians (including four board-certified veterinary toxicologists) and six certified veterinary technicians. The number for consultation services is 1-888-4ANI-HELP.