The greater roadrunner is a long-legged bird in the cuckoo family, Cuculidae, from the Aridoamerica region in the Southwestern United States and Mexico. The scientific name means "Californian earth-cuckoo". Along with the lesser roadrunner, it is one of two species in the genus Geococcyx. This roadrunner is also known as the chaparral cock, ground cuckoo, and snake killer.
Region
Southwestern United States and northern Mexico
Typical Environment
Occurs across arid and semi-arid landscapes including deserts, chaparral, open scrub, and sparsely wooded grasslands. It favors areas with scattered shrubs, cacti, and open ground for running and foraging. Nests are typically placed in low shrubs, cholla, or small trees. The species avoids dense forests and prefers edge habitats, dry washes, and road margins where prey is abundant.
Altitude Range
0–2400 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A fast-running ground cuckoo, the greater roadrunner can sprint at around 20–26 mph, using speed to chase down lizards and even small snakes. It is famous for occasionally preying on venomous rattlesnakes and scorpions, subduing them with quick strikes. Like other cuckoos it has zygodactyl feet (two toes forward, two back) that aid in gripping branches and handling prey. It often sunbathes by lifting its feathers to expose dark skin patches that absorb morning warmth.
Greater roadrunner walking in the Mojave Desert, California
With a six-lined racerunner
A greater roadrunner sunbathing
Greater roadrunner on the run
Three views of the same individual
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief glides; prefers running to flying
Social Behavior
Usually seen alone or in pairs, forming long-term monogamous bonds. Pairs defend territories year-round and cooperate in nesting; the male often provisions the incubating female and chicks. Nests are bulky platforms of sticks lined with softer materials in low vegetation.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of low, mournful cooing notes that descend in pitch, often given at dawn. Also produces bill-clacking and assorted chatters during displays and territorial encounters.
