The Greater Roadrunner is a unique bird most commonly found in the dry Sonoran desert habitat of the American Southwest, but with a range that extends eastward to Louisiana and Arkansas. They are unique in appearance and in behavior. They are large birds with long tails that double their total length. They are most commonly seen walking or running along the ground as they forage for food, and will only take flight if threatened or disturbed. They are the largest member of the North American cuckoo family.
Habitat
Found in a variety of brushy habitats, but is the most common in Sonoran desert habitats with scattered scrubs and cactus. They are much less commonly found in grassland or woodland edges.
Diet
Omnivorous, feeding on a wide variety of items. Mostly feeds on animals, including large insects, lizards, snakes, small rodents, small birds, eggs, scorpions, and large spiders like tarantulas. They will also eat fruits and berries, sometimes feeding heavily on cactus fruits in season in appropriate habitats. Seeds and nuts are also sometimes eaten if available.
Behavior
Hunts by rapidly walking along the ground, dashing after prey when spotted.
Nesting
The Greater Roadrunner is thought to possibly mate for life, as nesting pairs will defend a territory at all times of the year. The nest is a platform of sticks, lined with softer vegetative material and feathers, placed between 2 and 10 feet from the ground in a bush, cactus, or small tree. Both the male and female help to incubate the eggs, and both parents help to feed and tend to the young after they hatch.
Song
The song of a Greater Roadrunner is a slow series of cooing notes that descend and become less intense towards the end. They also make rattling sound with their bills.
Migration
Considered a permanent resident throughout its range. Young birds may disperse moderate distances once fledged and independent.
Interactive eBird Map
Click here to access an interactive eBird map of Greater Roadrunner sightings
Similar Species
Distinctive, not likely to be confused with another species in range. For additional identification clues, look for a trailing coyote, trying to capture a Greater Roadrunner, or perhaps trying to drop a safe on its head from a high cliff top. :-)
Feeders
Will sometimes come to feeders for offered fruit or seeds.
Conservation Status
The Greater Roadrunner is found over a large geographic range, has a large population, and population trends appear to be stable. The IUCN lists the Greater Roadrunner as a species of "Least Concern".
Further Information
- eBird - Greater Roadrunner
- Audubon Field Guide - Greater Roadrunner
- Cornell Lab of Ornithology - All About Birds: Greater Roadrunner
Photo Information
Photo taken at the Phoenix Botanical Gardens on December 28th, 2018 - Terry Sohl
