San Juan Capistrano
Located in southern Orange County, San Juan Capistrano is probably best known for the swallows that had migrated to the city from Argentina for many years. The cliff swallows showed up each year to build their nests, and the city celebrates the miracle of their arrival with a parade and other festivities on St. Joseph’s Day, March 19. The tiny birds circled the area before leaving on Oct. 23, the Day of San Juan. As of 2009, the swallows have not shown up in San Juan Capistrano; officials believe it is because the mission where they built their nests was no longer the tallest building in the area. They have since moved on to Chino Hills located in Southern California.