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==Identification:== | ==Identification:== | ||
| − | Unmistakable large bird (51-61cm length, 81cm wingspan) seen | + | Unmistakable large bird (51-61cm length, 81cm wingspan) usually seen walking or running along desert terrain, weaving skillfully through openings in fences or underbrush. Flies with reluctance only when threatened. Upper parts, chin, and chest are heavily streaked brown and white; buff belly. In flight, a white crescent may present on primaries. Shaggy crest on head, not always erect. Heavy black bill, slightly downturned, with hooked tip. Long pale blue legs and feet. Sometimes has a patch of bare skin behind the eyes with colors of blue, red, and orange. |
==Distribution:== | ==Distribution:== | ||
Revision as of 13:06, 18 June 2007
- Geococcyx californianus
Description:
This fairly common member of the cuckoo family (Cuculidae) was called the Ground Cuckoo in centuries past, because it was often seen running along in front of carriages. They can still be commonly seen darting across or along roads, although at a peak speed of 15mph, they can no longer keep up with traffic.
Identification:
Unmistakable large bird (51-61cm length, 81cm wingspan) usually seen walking or running along desert terrain, weaving skillfully through openings in fences or underbrush. Flies with reluctance only when threatened. Upper parts, chin, and chest are heavily streaked brown and white; buff belly. In flight, a white crescent may present on primaries. Shaggy crest on head, not always erect. Heavy black bill, slightly downturned, with hooked tip. Long pale blue legs and feet. Sometimes has a patch of bare skin behind the eyes with colors of blue, red, and orange.
Distribution:
Mexico, southwest and southern midwest states of U.S., in suitable terrain.
Taxonomy:
Kingdom: Animalia-> Phylum: Chordata-> Class: Aves -> Order: Cuculiformes -> Family: Cuculidae -> Genus: Geococcyx -> Species: G. californianus
Habitat:
Dry, hot country. Scrub, chapparal, agricultural areas, urban fringes.
Behaviour:
Spends most of its time on the ground, often solitary. Runs to catch snakes, lizards, small birds and rodents. Monogamous breeder. Can be quite tame where not persecuted.
