Skip to main content
Greater Roadrunner photo 1

Greater roadrunner

Geococcyx californianus

About the Greater roadrunner

The Greater roadrunner (Geococcyx californianus) is a species documented in our database. Learn more about this species through the information below.

Conservation Status

Greater roadrunner is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Population Trend

stable

Current Threats

  • Habitat loss
  • Vehicle collisions
  • Introduced predators

Photo Gallery

Greater Roadrunner photo 1
2 photos available

Geographic Distribution

Distribution by Region

Southwest United States

Continent: North America
Country: United States
Region: Southwest

Distribution Overview

Greater roadrunners are most commonly found in desert areas.

Quick Facts

Size
50 - 60 cm
Weight
225 - 375 g
Lifespan
7-8 years years
Diet
InsectsSmall reptilesRodentsFruit

Habitat

DesertsGrasslandsScrublands

Behavior

  • Can run at speeds up to 20 mph
  • Known to eat venomous prey such as rattlesnakes
  • Uses its long tail for balance and steering while running