Basilisk (Basiliscus plumifrons)

ReptileLizardCentral America

Overview

Basilisks (genus Basiliscus) are lizards of Central and northern South America best known for an almost magical ability: they can sprint across the surface of water on their hind legs without sinking. This has earned them the nickname “Jesus Christ lizard.” The green basilisk (Basiliscus plumifrons), shown here, is a vivid emerald species with tall crests on the head, back, and tail, especially in males.

The water-running trick is real physics, not myth: young, light basilisks slap the water with their broad-toed hind feet fast enough to create pockets of air and push off before they sink.

Note: there are several basilisk species; details here use the green basilisk as a reference. Treat general statements as approximate and verify against authoritative sources.

Habitat & Range

Basilisks live in tropical rainforests and along rivers, streams, and ponds of Central America (the green basilisk ranges from southern Mexico through Costa Rica and into Panama). They are usually found in vegetation close to water, which they use both for feeding and as an escape route.

Diet

Basilisks are omnivores, eating mostly insects and other invertebrates along with small vertebrates (such as small lizards, fish, or frogs) and a fair amount of plant matter, including fruit and flowers. They forage in vegetation and along the water's edge, snapping up whatever suitable prey they encounter.

Behavior

The basilisk's signature escape is to drop into water and run across the surface on its hind legs — fringes of skin on the toes spread to increase surface area, and rapid slapping strokes create momentary air pockets that keep it from sinking, at least until its speed drops, when it simply swims. Basilisks are also excellent swimmers and divers and can stay underwater for a time. They are agile climbers, active by day, and rely on speed and water to evade the many predators of the rainforest.

Human Interaction & Conservation

Basilisks are harmless to people and a favourite sight for rainforest visitors, who are often amazed to see one dash across a stream. They are sometimes kept as exotic pets (where legal). Green basilisks remain reasonably widespread but depend on healthy waterside forest. Consult authoritative sources for species-specific status.

More photos of the basilisk