San Antonio Zoo has announced they are renaming their roadrunner 'Rowdy' just days after UTSA won the second back-to-back Conference USA football championships. The 48 – 27 win over University of North Texas inspired the naming of the resident roadrunner located in the 'Birds Of The World' area at San Antonio Zoo.
"I am proud of the Roadrunners for bringing another championship to San Antonio and for all the athletes, coaches, staff, and students of UTSA," said Tim Morrow, President & CEO of San Antonio Zoo and UTSA Alumni. "The Greater Roadrunner is known for its courage, strength, speed, and endurance, all qualities we have seen from UTSA athletics this season. Be sure to visit Rowdy and give him a Birds Up!"
Greater Roadrunners are native to the United States and Mexico and thrive in deserts and open areas with scattered brush. While roadrunners can fly, they prefer to be on the ground running at speeds up to 27 mph. The most significant threat to roadrunners is habitat loss due to humans. Roadrunners are incredibly personable and wag their tails and puff or slick back the crest on the top of their heads to express emotions.
Photos: San Antonio Zoo