The Greater Roadrunner is a large ground cuckoo capable of running at speeds up to 20 mph to catch prey, including rattlesnakes it kills by slamming against the ground. It is well adapted to desert heat, raising its feathers to expose dark skin to the morning sun to warm up after cold nights. In Southwestern Native American cultures it represents good luck and protection.
Best time to see a Greater Roadrunner
The best time to see a Greater Roadrunner is January–July, when about 65% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 36,455 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Greater Roadrunner? What bird is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Greater Roadrunner sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spotted a Greater Roadrunner?
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal and know for sure - plus a live map of where it is being spotted near you.