Geococcyx

Geococcyx is a small genus of ground-dwelling birds in the cuckoo family Cuculidae, commonly known as roadrunners. The name derives from Greek ge (earth) and kokkyx (cuckoo). The genus contains two extant species: the greater roadrunner (Geococcyx californianus) and the lesser roadrunner (Geococcyx velox). They inhabit open, arid and semi-arid environments across the Americas, from the southwestern United States through much of Mexico and Central America, with range limits varying by species.

Roadrunners are medium-sized birds with long legs and tails, adapted for rapid terrestrial locomotion. They are primarily ground-dwelling and can sprint across open country at notable speeds, seldom flying except to escape predators or move between perches. They have mottled brown plumage with streaking, a crest, and a long straight bill.

They forage on the ground, eating a mixed diet of insects, small reptiles and amphibians, small mammals, and occasionally fruits and seeds. They are known for taking venomous prey such as rattlesnakes, killing them with a swift strike and consuming the head or tail.

Breeding involves building a twiggy platform nest in shrubs or on cacti; clutches typically contain several eggs, incubated by both parents for roughly two to three weeks. Chicks fledge after about a month and may remain with or be cared for by parents for some time after fledging.

Roadrunners are not globally threatened; they are listed as Least Concern in many regions, though local populations may be affected by habitat loss and pesticide use.