Jesus Christ Lizard (Basilisk)

Basiliscus basiliscus

Description:

Nicknamed the “Jesus Christ Lizard,” this extraordinary reptile may run on water when threatened. This spectacle can be readily witnessed; of all large lizards in Costa Rica, this species is the most commonly encountered, especially along streams and lakes. It is more numerous in the dry northwestern region of the country. Adults often bask in daylight near water when they are not foraging or resting. At night they sleep on perches close to the ground or as high as 20 m.

Notes:

Taken on Tempisque River, Palo Verde, Costa Rica....I actually got a chance to see it run over water...was very cool to watch.

Species ID Suggestions

14 Comments

AnnalisaD 11 years ago

;) many thanks Adarsha!

Adarsha B S 11 years ago

Awesome spotting!

AnnalisaD 12 years ago

Thanks espinoza.enoc!

espinoza.enoc 12 years ago

great picture,

AnnalisaD 12 years ago

Lol yeah... I actually saw this guy run was just way to fast to capture....I will have to make another trip!

KarenSaxton 12 years ago

I saw one running as well and there was no way I'd have gotten a shot unless we found every last basilisk in Tortuguero park and startled it into running!

AnnalisaD 12 years ago

Thank you Bong :)

Bong Ambutong 12 years ago

Great photo and spotting...

AnnalisaD 12 years ago

Thanks bayucca! :)

bayucca 12 years ago

Wonderful spotting!

AnnalisaD 12 years ago

Thank Jonathan....considering how fast they really are it a good shot! Ismael considering you live in Costa Rica I am sure you will get to see one running!