Green Basilisk Lizard

Green Basilisk Lizard

The green basilisk lizard is additionally referred to as a plumed or double-crested basilisk; but it's amazing ability to run on water gives this species its most recognizable name: the Jesus Christ lizard.
Abundant within the tropical rain forests of Central America, from southern North American nation to Panama, green basilisks spend abundant of their time within the trees and area unit ne'er far from a body of water. once vulnerable, they will drop from a tree in to the water and sprint, upright, about five ft (1.5 m) per second across the surface.

To accomplish this, they need long toes on their rear feet with fringes of skin that change surface within the water, increasing surface aria. As they quickly churn their legs, they slap their splayed feet onerous against the water, making a small pocket that keeps them from sinking, provided they maintain their speed. they will move along the surface like this for fifteen linear unit (4.5 m) or more. once gravity eventually does take over, the basilisk resorts to its wonderful swimming skills to continue its flight.

Parts of the common iguana family, green basilisks grow to about a pair of ft (61 cm) long, as well as their long, whip-like tail. Males have distinctive, high crests on their heads and backs, that they use to impress females.

Green basilisks area unit omnivores, surviving on a diet of material, insects, fruit, and tiny animals. they're common throughout their rang and haven't any special status, however long natural predators like snakes and birds keep these amazing lizards on their toes.

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