National Catfish Day
June 25
There are nearly 2,900 species of catfish in existence today. Catfish species live inland or in coastal waters of every continent except Antarctica. Catfish can live up to 60 years depending on location and species. Catfish have one of the greatest ranges in size within a single order of bony fish. Some of the smallest species reach less than ½-inch in length. The average size of the species is about 3.9–5.2 feet, however, they are known to exceed 8 feet in length and 220 pounds in weight. The name “catfish” refers to the long barbels, or feelers, which are present about the mouth of the fish and resemble cat whiskers. Many catfishes possess spines in front of the dorsal and pectoral fins. These spines may be associated with venom glands and can cause painful injuries to the unsuspecting.
Goat Cheese Day
June 25
Goat cheese takes about three days to make. It changes in appearance and becomes stronger tasting as time goes by. Goats normally produce milk for 4 to 5 years, although some are productive longer. Goats start giving milk at about 2 years old and will produce 12 to 16 pounds of milk a day, or 1 1/2 to 2 gallons, about 10 percent of what cows produce. It takes about 100 pounds of goat milk to make 16 to 25 pounds of cheese, depending on when during their producing cycle the milk is drawn. The later in the cycle, the thinner the milk and the more it takes.
Today’s Birthdays of Note….
Phyllis George – Miss America & TV Personality – born in Denton, Texas
George Orwell– Author – born in British India
