Common basilisk

The lizard that walks on water

The common basilisk is a slender lizard of the family Corytophanidae, reaching up to 70–80 cm including the tail. Adult males are recognisable by the conspicuous crests adorning their head, back and tail, giving them the look of a miniature dragon. The colour is olive-brown with paler bands. The hind legs are long and powerful, with toes bearing skin flaps that spread on contact with water.

Habitat and range

It is endemic to Central America and the north-western part of South America, where it lives in rainforests, always near rivers, streams and bodies of water. It spends much of its time among the riverside vegetation, from which it can flee by diving.

Behaviour

Its most famous trait is the ability to run across the surface of water for several metres when threatened: thanks to its rapidly beating hind legs and the flaps on its toes, it avoids sinking as long as it keeps up speed. This earns it the nickname "Jesus Christ lizard". It is omnivorous, feeding on insects, small vertebrates, flowers and fruit, and is also a good swimmer and climber.

Notable facts

Juveniles, being lighter, run on water even more easily than adults. When running is not enough, the basilisk dives and can stay underwater for several minutes before resurfacing.

Conservation

The species is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN and is common across much of its range. It benefits from its adaptability but remains tied to intact humid forests along watercourses.