Green Basilisk

Called Jesus Christ lizard

Another name for the plumed basilisk is the Jesus Christ lizard. This is because this lizard can actually run on top of water! It runs on its back legs, just as we do.

It does not sink because it has broad back feet with a lot of skin between the toes, plus a long tail. This allows it to distribute its weight. The skin between the toes creates an air pocket that enables the lizard to stay on top of the water. The plumed basilisk is also very fast! It can reach speeds of over 11 km/h on the water’s surface. 

Handsome crests

If you look hard at the branches in the rainforest above the stream, you might catch sight of a plumed basilisk! This fairly large, green lizard is also called the green basilisk or double crested basilisk.

The male has two crests on his head that look like a helmet. He also has a long crest on his back and one along his tail, which he can raise when he wants to attract a female. The female also has crests on her head but they are considerably smaller. 

Good at swimming

The plumed basilisk uses its ability to run on water if it is threatened by a predator, for example. Then it can jump down from a branch above the water’s surface and run away on its back legs!

It can run as far as 4.5 metres on water without sinking. Then it can swim. The plumed basilisk is a good swimmer and can last for up to half an hour underwater before needing to breathe. 

Born to run

The female can lay several clutches of eggs during the same season. One clutch can contain up to 20 eggs. After the young basilisks hatch, they can run almost immediately (both on land and on water), swim and climb.