John Gitsham, past President of Birds SA and environmentalist, is coming to Strathalbyn on Tuesday 17 August to talk about the joys of birdwatching.

The Goolwa to Wellington Local Action Planning Association has organised the event, to be held at 7pm at the Strathalbyn Natural Resource Centre in Catherine Street. 

People wanting to attend should RSVP by contacting Community Engagement Officer Jacqui Wilson on 0400 036 843 or at [email protected].

Birdwatching is a popular pastime on the Fleurieu and there are more than 200 native birds in the region. 

Many are considered regionally threatened however, including the crested shrike-tit, the hooded plover and the brown quail which is a delight to watch on Granite Island.

Local birdwatchers were thrilled back in June when some critically endangered orange-bellied parrots were spotted on Hindmarsh Island.

A 2017 research project undertaken by a UK based university found that birdwatching can improve mental health and reduce anxiety and depression. 

Birds SA (or The South Australian Ornithological Association as it was originally known) was founded in 1899 and is the oldest birding association in Australia.

The association organises three birding outings each month and is a great way for people to become involved with local environmental groups. For more information visit https://birdssa.asn.au/