Green Basilisk

By Marla Lise

Scientific Name: Basiliscus plumifrons

This lizard goes by many names – green, plumed or double-crested basilisk and the Jesus Christ lizard. It’s been given this nickname because the green basilisk has specially-adapted feet that actually allow it to run on water! They can sprint across the water surface, upright on their hind legs, at a rate of 5 feet per second.

This lizard is native to Latin America and is quite common, ranging from Mexico to Ecuador. They are from the same family as the iguana and can grow up to 2 feet long, excluding its tail. Males can be differentiated from the females by the crests on their heads and their backs. The males are very territorial and do not get along with each other.

Green Basilisk. Photo by Rhett A. Butler
The green basilisk is usually found on trees, near water sources. They are good climbers, good runners and good swimmers – being able to stay underwater for almost 30 minutes. They are omnivores, meaning they eat both plant and animal material, such as, small insects and fruit. They are not listed as endangered or vulnerable at the moment, but have a large number of natural predators, like birds and snakes.


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