The Legendary Water-Walking Reptile Known as the Basilisk Lizard

The Amazing Basilisk Lizard: Walking on Water

A Marvel of Nature

If you’ve ever seen a lizard running across the surface of water, you’ve likely witnessed the amazing basilisk lizard in action. This stunning feat earned the basilisk the nickname “Jesus Christ lizard.” Like the founder of Christianity, this slithery critter can walk across lakes and seas.

The Biology of Water-Walking

Basilisk lizards are native to Central and South America, where they thrive in lush tropical habitats. From green basilisks to brown basilisks, these speedy creatures are masters of survival, combining agility, stealth, and their famous water-walking abilities to stay ahead of predators.

Physical Characteristics

Basilisk lizards are medium-sized reptiles with long, slender bodies and tails that make up most of their length. Adult green basilisks can reach up to 3 feet (0.9 meters), including their tails. The plumed basilisk has crest-like plumes on its head, back, and tail, while the common basilisk is typically brown or olive with light stripes.

Unique Feet

All basilisk species have large hind legs with elongated toes fringed with skin, which allow them to run across water at speeds of up to 5 feet (1.5 meters) per second. Their special feet with long, spiny toes create a large surface area that pushes down on the water, creating tiny pockets of air.

The Different Species

There are four basilisk species, each with unique traits and ranges. The green basilisk lizard (Basiliscus plumifrons) inhabits rainforests from Honduras to Costa Rica. The plumed basilisk is known for its vibrant green color and dramatic crests. The common basilisk (Basiliscus basiliscus) is more widespread, found in a variety of habitats from dry forests to wetlands. The brown basilisk (Basiliscus vittatus) is the smallest of the four species and is often seen in both wild and urban areas.

Social Behavior

Basilisk lizards are generally solitary creatures, but they can be observed basking in groups near water sources. Male green basilisks are territorial and will display aggressive behaviors to defend their space. Female common basilisks, however, are less aggressive and often move between territories.

Breeding Season

During the breeding season, males attract females with elaborate displays, including their colorful crests and dynamic movements. These social behaviors are key to maintaining their populations in the wild.

Life Cycle and Habitat

The life cycle of a basilisk lizard begins when a female lays a clutch of eggs in a shallow nest, typically in sandy soil near water. Female common basilisks can lay up to 20 eggs per clutch, and the eggs hatch after about two to three months. Young basilisks grow rapidly, reaching maturity within a year.

Diet

Basilisk lizards are omnivores, feeding on a variety of insects, fruits, flowers, and small animals like frogs and fish. In captivity, basilisks thrive on a mix of fresh fruits, vegetables, and live insects.

Conservation Status

Most basilisk species are not currently listed as endangered, but habitat destruction and urban development pose significant threats to their populations. As countries clear rainforests for agriculture or construction, the natural habitats of basilisk lizards are shrinking, forcing them into smaller, fragmented areas.

Protecting Basilisks

Conservation efforts aim to preserve the rainforests that support basilisk populations. Educating people about their ecological importance and protecting their habitats are key to ensuring these water-walking wonders continue to thrive in the wild.