Latin Name

Geococcyx californianus

History at CuriOdyssey

Our female roadrunner was captive born at Fort Worth Zoo and donated to CuriOdyssey in Sept. 2013. She was born in March 2013.

Fun Fact about Roadrunners

Roadrunners are the state bird of New Mexico. Roadrunners will patrol their range in search of food, running after their prey. They have also been observed jumping into the air in order to catch insects and small birds.

What do roadrunners eat?

Various invertebrates, lizards, snakes, small mammals, small birds, eggs, seeds, fruit, even carrion. At CuriOdyssey, they are served crickets, worms, mice, beef, chick and quail.

How long do roadrunners live?

In the Wild: average is ~4 years, although up to 7 or 8 years has been reported. In Captivity: average 7-8 yrs.

Where do roadrunners live?

Mostly open, flat areas, such as desert, scrub brush and chaparral. They can be found throughout the southwestern U.S and northern Mexico, in the Sonoran, Mojave, Chihuahuan, and southern Great Basin deserts. They are found as far north as southern Kansas and Missouri.

Are Greater Roadrunners endangered?

No special wildlife conservation status, although habitat loss and urban sprawl are considered threats to the greater roadrunner. Because they eat insects, the use of agricultural pesticides is also a threat to the population.