Common Basilisk - 2
The Common Basilisk (Basiliscus basiliscus) when full grown can reach up to 2 ½ feet long including the tail. The males have distinctive sail-like crests on the head, back and tail. These crests are either small, or not present, on the females and young. When in danger these lizards will run on just the hind legs at an impressive speed. Their hind feet are very long and provide them excellent traction and balance when running. Often these lizards are found near water and if startled can run across the surface of the water for a distance before becoming submerged – they then resort to swimming. For this reason they have been called Jesus Christ Lizards for their ability to walk on water. Female lizard in photograph. Piedra Blancas National Park, Costa Rica
Common Basilisk - 2
The Common Basilisk (Basiliscus basiliscus) when full grown can reach up to 2 ½ feet long including the tail. The males have distinctive sail-like crests on the head, back and tail. These crests are either small, or not present, on the females and young. When in danger these lizards will run on just the hind legs at an impressive speed. Their hind feet are very long and provide them excellent traction and balance when running. Often these lizards are found near water and if startled can run across the surface of the water for a distance before becoming submerged – they then resort to swimming. For this reason they have been called Jesus Christ Lizards for their ability to walk on water. Female lizard in photograph. Piedra Blancas National Park, Costa Rica