68 You can learn a lot about birds by observing those in the area around your home, but to see different varieties, you will need to visit different habitats. Going for a walk in the country or by the sea can introduce you to many interesting new species. You could also visit bird reserves, sanctuaries, or national parks to see more rare and unusual birds. Parks and gardens Parks and gardens are good places to observe birds. With their trees, flowerbeds, and ponds, they provide a wealth of different habitats. Nuts and seeds attract blue tits to a garden Bright blue colour on the head and wings Swans at a wildfowl and wetlands centre Ostriches in Tarangire National Park, South Africa Wetlands Lakes, rivers, swamps, and marshes are home to a wide variety of birds, from swans and ducks to herons and storks. Here, food is plentiful and there are safe nesting places in reeds and on the banks. Blue tits National parks From high mountains to deep lakes, complex cave systems to dry deserts, national parks contain different landscapes. Some bird species can be found only in these protected habitats. PLACES TO VISIT CLEY MARSHES, NORFOLK • A wide range of birds, especially waders and rare winter migrants. FARNE ISLANDS, NORTHUMBERLAND • Breeding seabirds, especially in spring. FOREST OF DEAN, GLOUCESTERSHIRE • Many woodland species such as woodpeckers and warblers. MINSMERE, SUFFOLK • One of the best reserves with hides for observing a huge variety of birds.