Colleen Paige founded National Pet Day in 2006, and her goal was to bring awareness to the mental health benefits of owning a pet. According to National Today, “Over the past ten years, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has been a research partner to determine the physical and mental benefit. It turns out that not only can pets steal our hearts, but they also contribute to overall cardiovascular health by lowering cortisol, cholesterol, and blood pressure levels.” So in observance of National Pet Day, we are taking time out to celebrate the wildlife here at Haggin Oaks, as they have become our honorary pets.
Although many golfers have a love and hate relationship with these Canadian Geese, most veteran golfers will admit that encountering them can provide a good story. Many people find the geese beautiful, and they blend well with the overall golf aesthetic here at Haggin Oaks. Not to mention, they supply an ecological benefit by dispersing plant seeds and providing fertilizer.
Wild Turkeys find refuge from predators on the MacKenzie Golf Course.
It’s not unusual to spot a Wild Turkey at Haggin Oaks or in Sacramento. These birds have made their home near urban and suburban areas because of the droughts throughout California. The Mackenzie Pond located on the golf course is probably an excellent attraction for the turkeys. They seem to enjoy Alister Mackenzie’s golf course design just as we do. They are spectacular to see with their iridescent colors of mixed metallic mauves, brick reds, and rich browns. So break out your optical golf monocular range finders to look at these super birds. (hint: you may also find a pair of range finders in our Haggin Oaks Golf Super Shop). You can even use your smartphone to take a selfie or two while at it.
And last but certainly not least we have the Red Tail Hawk who can be spotted every so often on the greens. These birds can migrate as far as Panama when it is in season. However, it is likely that they see you long before you spot them. Their vision is excellent, to say the least.
Although we have great affection for our winged friends, it is always good to remember that they are diligent at finding food for themselves. So there is no need to feed them. And while hugging your cat and dog at home always brings the warm and fuzzies, our honorary pets tend to like their personal space. But you can always enjoy them from afar.
Do you have an interesting Haggin Oak’s Canadian Geese or Wild Turkey story? Share them in the blog comments and a picture, and we will pick the best to highlight on Instagram. Be sure to follow us to see if you are selected. Happy National Pets Day!
