Arizona's WildLife

"Where the Wild Things Roam"

< Category Menu

Greater Roadrunner

Geococcyx californianus

Look for them along roadsides, desert washes, and open scrublands. They are often seen darting across roads or perched on low fences and rocks.

The greater roadrunner is an iconic desert bird found throughout Arizona’s deserts, grasslands, and open woodlands. Recognizable by its mottled brown-and-white plumage, long tail, and prominent crest, it is well-adapted to arid landscapes and spends most of its time running on the ground rather than flying. Capable of sprinting up to 20 mph, roadrunners hunt insects, small reptiles, and mammals, using their speed and agility to capture prey. Their bold personality, distinctive calls, and striking appearance make them a familiar and memorable presence in Arizona’s harsh, dry environments. As a predator in desert ecosystems, the greater roadrunner helps control populations of insects and small animals, contributing to ecological balance.

Bird

Identification & Behavior

Key Features: Long tail and strong legs built for speed. Distinctive crest that can be raised or flattened. Zygodactyl feet (two toes forward, two backward) for gripping prey. Loud, cooing calls often mistaken for a dove

Size: About 20–24 inches in length, wingspan up to 24 inches; 8–15 oz in weight.

Behavior: Roadrunners are skilled hunters, often working in pairs to tackle larger prey. They regulate body temperature by sunbathing in the morning, spreading their wings to absorb warmth.

Diet: Omnivore. Eats insects, lizards, snakes (including rattlesnakes), small birds, rodents, fruits, and seeds.

Activity Pattern: Diurnal (active during the day).

Habitat & Distribution

Widely distributed throughout Arizona, especially in the Sonoran and Chihuahuan deserts, grasslands, and open scrub areas. Common in Tonto, Coronado, Coconino, and Prescott National Forests, as well as Sonoran Desert valleys, foothills of the Mogollon Rim, and Madrean Sky Islands. Prefers open terrain with scattered shrubs, rocky washes, and mesquite or acacia woodlands.

Elevation Range: Sea level to ~7,000 ft, most common at lower elevations.

Seasonal Presence: Year-round

Risks & Management

Generally not dangerous, but they are opportunistic hunters. They can dispatch small snakes with quick strikes.

Fun Fact: The roadrunner can kill rattlesnakes by repeatedly striking them against the ground. Its speed and agility allow it to avoid bites while hunting.