Every bird has a name and every tree has a story. Curiosity makes a boring walk a lot less boring.

The difference between a dull walk and an interesting one is largely how much of it you can name. Knowing three birds or four trees gives your attention somewhere to go, and once things have names they stop being background and become individuals you keep spotting. Nothing about the route has changed. There is simply more in it for you to see.

Learn to recognise one bird or one tree properly this week, close enough to be certain. Use whatever is commonest where you live. Then notice how often it turns up, which will be more often than you expect.