 The roadrunner, Geococcyx californianus, a large ground bird native to arid scrublands of the southwestern United States and Mexico, belongs to the cuckoo family, Cuculidae. It measures about 58 cm (23 in) and has brown plumage streaked with white above and on the throat, and white plumage below. It also has a bushy crest, blue and red eye rings, long, spindly legs, and a long tail.
The roadrunner seldom flies, preferring to depend on its swiftness afoot to reach safety when surprised. It preys on small snakes as well as insects, lizards, and, occasionally, the young of ground-nesting birds. |
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