Basilisk Lizard

Basilisk Lizard

The Basilisk lizard, commonly known as the Jesus lizard, refers to several species in the genus Basiliscus found in Central and South America. These reptiles are best known for their remarkable ability to run across the surface of water, a trait that has made them one of the most recognizable and studied lizards of the neotropical forests. Basilisks inhabit humid lowland rainforests, riverbanks, and freshwater ecosystems where their agility and speed play an essential role in survival.

Taxonomy and Species

The genus Basiliscus belongs to the family Corytophanidae. There are four recognized species:

Basiliscus basiliscus – Common basilisk

Basiliscus plumifrons – Plumed basilisk

Basiliscus vittatus – Brown basilisk

Basiliscus galeritus – Red-headed basilisk

These species vary slightly in color and crest structure but share similar habitats and ecological roles.

Etymology

The name “basilisk” originates from the Greek word basilískos, meaning “little king.” This refers to the lizard’s prominent head crest, giving it a crown-like appearance. The nickname "Jesus lizard" comes from its famous ability to run on water for short distances.

Description

Basilisks are medium-sized lizards, with adults typically measuring 60–70 cm (24–28 in) including the tail. Males grow larger than females and develop more pronounced crests on their head, back, and tail. Their bodies are slender, agile, and built for rapid movement. Coloration ranges from olive brown in the brown basilisk to bright green in the plumed basilisk.

One of the most distinctive features of the basilisk is its elongated hind limbs, which are equipped with splayed toes and specialized skin fringes. These allow the lizard to create pockets of air as its feet slap the water, enabling temporary “water walking.”
Water-Running Ability

The basilisk’s ability to run across water is one of the most studied locomotion feats among reptiles. When startled by predators such as birds, snakes, or mammals, the lizard can sprint at speeds up to 10–12 km/h. Using rapid slapping and stroking motions, it can travel several meters across ponds or streams before submerging and swimming.

This adaptation provides a unique escape strategy in rainforest environments dense with predators. Juvenile basilisks, being lighter, can travel farther on water than adults.

Habitat and Distribution

Basilisk lizards are native to tropical regions stretching from southern Mexico to northern South America, including Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Ecuador. They favor humid tropical forests with close access to freshwater bodies. These environments offer abundant insects, cover, and escape routes.

They spend much of their time near rivers, perched on branches or basking on rocks. When threatened, they drop into the water or dash across its surface.

Diet

Basilisks are omnivorous, feeding on a wide range of plant and animal matter. Their diet includes:

Insects

Small vertebrates such as fish, frogs, and other lizards

Fruits and flowers

Leaves and seeds

Young basilisks feed primarily on insects, while adults diversify as they grow.

Behavior

Basilisk lizards are diurnal, active mainly during daylight hours. They are excellent climbers and often retreat to trees at night. Males are territorial and display dominance through head-bobbing, crest erection, and active chasing. Although they may live near one another, individuals maintain strict territories.

Their swimming ability is as impressive as their water-running skill. Basilisks can remain submerged for up to 30 minutes by slowing their metabolism and hiding among aquatic vegetation.

Reproduction

Breeding occurs throughout the year in tropical regions. Females lay 10–20 eggs in shallow nests dug in soft soil or leaf litter. After an incubation period of about 8–10 weeks, hatchlings emerge fully independent. Juveniles grow quickly, gaining agility and water-running ability within weeks.

Conservation Status

Most basilisk species are listed as Least Concern by conservation authorities due to their wide distribution and stable populations. However, habitat loss from deforestation and human encroachment poses growing risks in some regions.