Lesser Roadrunner

Geococcyx velox

Least ConcernRareInvertebratesShrublandPlatform nestMedium · 180 g

About the Lesser Roadrunner

The lesser roadrunner is a large, long-legged bird that is a member of the cuckoo family, Cuculidae. It is found in Mesoamerica. Its Latin name means "swift earth-cuckoo". Along with the greater roadrunner, it is one of two species in the genus Geococcyx.

Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.

ID tip

The lesser roadrunner is a slender bird that reaches a length of 46 to 51 cm (18 in), the tail itself accounting for about 24 cm (9.4 in). Its average length is 46 cm (18 in). The male weighs 174–207 grams (6.1–7.3 oz), while the female weighs 162–192 grams (5.7–6.8 oz). The crown, crest and neck of the lesser roadrunner are black with a bronze glow and small light brown spots. The back neck is black-brown, with feathers are lined with a pale brown, so that a brown-white dashes arises.

Text from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.

Where it lives

Regular rangeRare visitor

Recorded as a rare visitor in United States.

When to see it

Peak activity in March · a resident species across most of its range

Easily confused with

Learn the Lesser Roadrunner for real

BeakBrain drills you on photos and calls until you can greet this bird by name in the field. Free to play, on any device.

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