Run Bird Run!

EepRun Bird Run!

We are meeting one of the coolest birds in the southwest today- the greater roadrunner! Luckily this one didn’t have a coyote chasing it!

Greater Roadrunner Fun Facts: 

• Roadrunners have X shaped feet. The Pueblo people consider this shape sacred as it is thought to ward off evil spirits.
• They are carnivores. They spent most of our time on the ground hunting small mammals, reptiles and toads.
• These fierce predators slam their prey against rocks. They are also known for their ability to kill rattlesnakes, scorpions and venomous lizards.
• Roadrunners can reach speeds of up to 20 mph.
• They have a special gland by their eye to help excrete excess salt!
• Roadrunners are territorial.
• They are not good fliers.

These funny looking birds are suited for the terrestrial habitat. Those fast feet give them an advantage in finding food and staying away from predators. Once only found in the southwest, these birds are moving east can be found as far as Louisiana now.