Studies made by the Institut Català d’Ornitologia (ICO – www.ornitologia.org) show that in total, nearly 400 bird species are found in Catalonia. The region’s broad variety of biotypes, including high mountains, rocky coastal areas, headlands, wetlands and sierras, are rich in year-round birdlife. As a result, Catalonia is a favourite spot for keen twitchers from all over the world. Amazingly, despite city fumes, there is an abundance of birdlife in the city too. Most species are concentrated in the parks; Parc del Laberint , in the Horta-Guinardó area is a prime spot for catching sight of the Great Tit. The Vall d’Aran and Aigüestortes National Park are famed for their stunning scenery and birding possibilities. The ICO is the official source of information on birdwatching in Catalonia, but a useful English language website is www.fatbirder.com. For all manner of birdwatching equipment, Oryx store (www.weboryx.com) sells binoculars, guides, outdoor wear and books on naturalist pursuits.