154 THE Birps Axsout Us. 
CHAPTER VII. 
THE CUCKOOS, ETC. 
HAT of our Cuckoos? There is found in 
“Northern Mexico and contiguous portions 
of the United States, north to Western Indian Territory 
and Kansas, Southern Colorado, and California,” a 
very curious and interesting bird known as the Road- 
runner. As the name suggests, it is a ground-cuckoo, 
and except that it occasionally perches upon a low 
bush, is seldom seen except on foot. It is very fleet 
and is often chased by men on horseback, and gives 
evidence of excellent endurance, not being readily 
overtaken. 
It is an expert fly-catcher, and feeds also upon 
lizards and mice. It is easily tamed, and under this 
artificial restraint proves to be an intelligent and 
amusing pet. The nest is loosely built of twigs ina 
low bush. 
Very different are the two common cuckoos of the 
Eastern States: different in appearance, in all habits, 
and strictly arboreal. I can recall no birds that so 
seldom leave the trees, and have no recollection of 
ever seeing one upon the ground. These two cuckoos 
are known as the “ Yellow-billed” and “ Black-billed” 
Cuckoos; but probably a more common name is 
“Rain Crow,” and a more absurd one would be 
