Basiliscus – basilisks
The Jesus Christ of the lizards
The species of the genus Basilisk may be found in both South and Central America. They can run on the water’s surface, earning them the nickname ‘Jesus Christ lizards.’
Basilisks are solitary and active throughout the day. They spent their days basking or hunting for food. They can climb up to 20 m (65 ft)into the branches of trees at night to get some sleep.
Basilisks, in addition to their well-known ability to run on water, can remain underwater for up to half an hour and are adept climbers and swimmers.
Basilisks are lizards that eat everything. They eat a wide variety of things, including insects (like beetles and dragonflies), flowers, and small vertebrates (including snakes, birds, eggs, and fish).
Species in this genus
Common basilisk
Also called the Jesus Christ lizard because of its ability to walk on water