Adopted 1949
What is the state bird of New Mexico?
The Greater Roadrunner, Geococcyx californianus, named New Mexico's state bird in 1949. No other state has chosen it.
- State bird
- Greater Roadrunner
- Scientific name
- Geococcyx californianus
- Year adopted
- 1949
- Shared with
- No other state
- Status in New Mexico
- present all year
- Nesting season here
- March–August
- Size
- 20.5–21.3 in, 7.8–19 oz
Seeing a Greater Roadrunner in New Mexico
In New Mexico the Greater Roadrunner is present all year. Long-legged, streaked brown ground cuckoo. Shaggy crest and long white-tipped tail. A descending series of low coos; also a bill clatter.
Frequently asked
What is the state bird of New Mexico?
The Greater Roadrunner (Geococcyx californianus), adopted in 1949.
When did New Mexico choose its state bird?
1949.
Do other states have the same state bird as New Mexico?
No. New Mexico is the only state with the Greater Roadrunner.
Can you see the Greater Roadrunner in New Mexico all year?
In New Mexico it is present all year. Nesting runs about March to August.
Adoption years from state archives and statutes as compiled in the List of U.S. state birds.