Tvårörs

Tvårörs, also known as the common starling (*Sturnus vulgaris*), is a small, highly adaptable passerine bird native to Europe, Western Asia, and the British Isles. Recognizable by its glossy black plumage with a speckled appearance during the breeding season, the tvårörs is a member of the starling family, Sturnidae. Its name derives from the Swedish words "två" (two) and "rör" (tubes or tubes of feathers), referring to the two central tail feathers that are elongated and streamlined.

The tvårörs is renowned for its complex and varied vocalizations, capable of mimicking sounds from its environment, including human speech and mechanical noises. This ability has made it a subject of interest in studies of bird song and communication. The species is also known for its highly social behavior, often forming large, noisy flocks known as murmurations, particularly during migration and winter months.

Tvårörs are omnivorous, feeding on a diverse diet that includes insects, fruits, seeds, and even human food scraps. They are highly adaptable to urban environments and can often be found in parks, gardens, and agricultural areas. Breeding typically occurs in cavities, such as tree holes or nest boxes, where females lay 4–6 eggs. Both parents participate in incubation and feeding the chicks, which fledge after about three weeks.

While the tvårörs is not currently classified as threatened, its population has faced challenges due to habitat loss, climate change, and competition with other bird species. Conservation efforts often focus on providing suitable nesting sites and maintaining diverse habitats to support its populations. The species is also a popular subject in birdwatching and ornithological research due to its behavioral complexity and ecological importance.