LONG-LEGGED BASILISK
Basiliscus grandis
DESCRIPTION
Long-legged Basilisk (Basiliscus grandis) is commonly known as the Green Basilisk and the Jesus Christ Lizard due to its remarkable ability to run on water. This species is characterized by its elongated limbs and distinctive crest along its back, which can be quite striking in males. They are primarily found in tropical rainforests, where they are adept at climbing and often bask in the sun on branches above the ground.
FUN FACTS
- The Long-legged Basilisk is often referred to as the Jesus Christ Lizard because of its ability to run on water, which it does by rapidly moving its legs and creating air pockets beneath its feet
- This remarkable skill allows it to escape from predators like snakes and birds
- | In addition to their water-running ability, these lizards are also excellent climbers, using their long limbs and sharp claws to navigate the trees of their rainforest habitat
- They can often be seen basking in the sun on branches, showcasing their vibrant green coloration
QUICK INFO
Lifespan5-10 years in the wild, up to 15 in captivity
Average Weight0.5-1 kg
Average Length0.6-0.9 m
Diet TypeOmnivore
Social Structuresolitary, typically found alone except during mating
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring to early summer
- Habitat
- This species thrives in humid tropical forests, often near water sources such as rivers and streams. They are excellent climbers and can often be found basking on tree branches.
- Biomes
- Tropical Rainforest
- Native Range
- The Long-legged Basilisk is native to Central America, specifically found in countries such as Costa Rica and Panama.
- Continent
- North America, Central America
- Countries
- Costa Rica, Panama
- Diet
- Long-legged Basilisk primarily feeds on insects, small vertebrates, and fruits. Their diet is diverse, allowing them to adapt to varying food availability in their habitat.
- Diet Type
- Omnivore
- Favorite Food
- insects, small vertebrates, fruits
- Social Structure
- solitary, typically found alone except during mating
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 1-2
- Territorial
- 1
VU
LC
0.5-1 kg
Weight
0.6-0.9 m
Length
- Coloration
- vibrant green with darker stripes and a distinctive crest
- Sexual Dimorphism
- males are larger and have more pronounced crests than females
- Lifespan
- 5-10 years in the wild, up to 15 in captivity
- Offspring per Birth
- 4-12
- Sexual Maturity
- 1-2 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring to early summer
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- Population status 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 pollution. These factors can significantly impact their populations and breeding success.
- Predators
- birds of prey, snakes, larger mammals
- Defense Mechanisms
- They can run on water for short distances to escape predators, a unique adaptation that allows them to evade threats.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon