BASILISK LIZARD
DESCRIPTION
Basilisk Lizard, also known as the Jesus Lizard, is a remarkable reptile famous for its ability to run on water. This lizard can be identified by its vibrant green coloration and distinctive crest along its back, which can be more pronounced in males. They are primarily found in Central and South America, where they inhabit humid tropical forests and are often seen basking on branches or near water sources.
FUN FACTS
- Basilisk Lizards are often referred to as 'Jesus Lizards' because of their extraordinary ability to run on water, which they achieve by rapidly moving their legs and creating air pockets beneath their feet
- This remarkable skill allows them to escape predators quickly
- | In addition to their water-running ability, Basilisk Lizards can also dive into the water and swim efficiently, using their long tails to propel themselves
- They are known to stay submerged for several minutes to avoid detection by predators
QUICK INFO
Lifespan5-10 years in the wild, up to 15 years in captivit
Average Weight0.5-1 kg
Average Length0.6-1 m
Diet TypeInsectivore
Social Structuresolitary, though they may be seen in pairs during the breeding season.
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring to early summer
- Habitat
- Basilisk Lizards thrive in tropical rainforests, often near rivers and streams where they can easily access water. They prefer areas with plenty of vegetation for cover and basking.
- Biomes
- Tropical Rainforest
- Native Range
- Basilisk Lizards are native to Central and South America, ranging from southern Mexico to western Ecuador.
- Continent
- North America, South America
- Countries
- Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Ecuador
- Diet
- Basilisk Lizards are primarily insectivorous, feeding on a variety of insects and small invertebrates. They may also consume some plant matter occasionally.
- Diet Type
- Insectivore
- Favorite Food
- insects, small invertebrates
- Social Structure
- solitary, though they may be seen in pairs during the breeding season.
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 1-2
- Territorial
- 0
VU
LC
0.5-1 kg
Weight
0.6-1 m
Length
- Coloration
- vibrant green with darker stripes or spots
- Sexual Dimorphism
- males are generally larger and have more pronounced crests than females
- Lifespan
- 5-10 years in the wild, up to 15 years in captivit
- Offspring per Birth
- 4-10
- Sexual Maturity
- 1-2 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring to early summer
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently stable, but habitat loss poses a potential threat.
- Wild Population Estimate
- unknown
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction due to deforestation and human encroachment. They are also vulnerable to predation by larger animals.
- Predators
- birds of prey, snakes, larger mammals
- Defense Mechanisms
- Basilisk Lizards can escape predators by running on water for short distances, a unique adaptation that allows them to evade capture.
- Found in Zoos
- Common