CUCKOOS

Greater Roadrunner, Geococcyx californianus

Family Cuculidae (Cuckoos)

Size: 23"

Season: Year-round

Habitat: Open fields, grasslands, urban areas

The Greater Roadrunner is a very large ground-dwelling cuckoo with rounded wings, a long tail, a long neck, and a strong, pointed bill. It is heavily streaked overall, except for its pale gray belly. A pale blue patch appears behind the eyes, and its short, shaggy crest is often raised. The legs are long and sturdy. Roadrunners run with their tail held horizontal and their neck outstretched, and rarely fly. They forage by chasing down reptiles, insects, and rodents. Call is a deep cooing. The adult is illustrated.