Join Kelly-Sue O’Connor for an live talk on birding an mental health at Toronto Public Library – Downsview Branch.

Originally from Riverview, New Brunswick now living in Blenheim, Ontario, Kelly-Sue has been a birder for 16 years now. She has been very involved in citizen science during that time starting with several Christmas Bird Counts a year, volunteering for nature organizations, fundraising and sitting on boards like the Toronto Ornithological Club, Friends of Sam Smith Park, Bird Friendly Cities and leading bird walks for Ontario Field Ornithologists. 

Kelly-Sue found birding as a way to practice self-care, grounding, meditation and mindfulness. Diagnosed with an auto-immune, C-PTSD (Complex Post Traumatic Syndrome), ADHD (attention deficit disorder) Anxiety, Depression, and other health issues experienced by many, she was inspired to share her love of birding and its healing benefits with others. As the Director of Birder Brain she aims to share tips on how to use birding to improve your own mental and physical health, as well as share the stories and experiences of others. 

This talk is presented by Birds Canada in partnership with Toronto Public Library.