Scientific Name:
Basiliscus plumifrons
Distribution
Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama
Diet:
Omnivore. insects, snails, frogs, fish, smaller lizards, but also flowers and fruit
Facts
Habitat: Tropical, dense and shady rainforests near water.
Incubation: 15 eggs, 55-105 days, several times a year.
Social structure: Solitary
Weight: ~200g
Dimensions: 70-90cm
Lifespan: 10
IUCN Status: Least concern
Estimated population in the wild: Unknown
Threats: Loss of habitat resulting from the impacts of expanding human populations.
Did you know that:
- They are not only good divers and swimmers, but with a speed up to app. 11 km/h they are capable to run short distances on the water surface. This is due to their long hind legs and its long, wide toes. When the speed decreases, they sink into the water. This ability gives this species its most recognizable moniker: the Jesus Christ lizard
- They can stay underwater for up to 30 min
- The tail is 2½ up to 3 times as long as the body
- Males have distinctive, high crests on their heads and backs, which they use to impress females.