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What is the Jesus Lizard?

J.L. Drede
J.L. Drede

Jesus lizard is a nickname given to the common basilisk lizard, also called the green basilisk. The nickname is derived from the lizard's unique ability to walk across water, referencing the biblical story of Christ crossing the Sea of Galilee. Its natural habitat is in the rain forests of Central and South America, usually near bodies of water such as rivers and streams.

This water-walking lizard gets its messiah-like power thanks to flaps of skin on the feet that unfurl when in the water. This increases the surface area of the lizard's feet. When running, the flaps hit the water hard, creating small air pockets that keep the lizard from sinking long enough for it to move forward. Thanks to these specially designed feet, the basilisk can sometimes run as far as 15 feet (4.5 meters) across the surface of the water before eventually submerging. Adding to the uncanny sight, some basilisks do this on two feet, giving them an humanoid appearance and further leading credence to the Jesus lizard nickname.

The Jesus lizard is a type of basilisk lizard.
The Jesus lizard is a type of basilisk lizard.

The walking on water ability of the basilisk is typically used when fleeing larger predators. The Jesus Lizard is low on the food chain in its natural habitat, and is frequently preyed upon by birds and snakes. When the water-walking ability has taken them as far as it can they dive into the water. The basilisk can move fast underwater as well as on top of it. In captivity a basilisk can live up to 10 years, but they rarely make it that long in the wild as they are pursued by so many predators.

The natural habitat of the Jesus lizard is the rain forests of Central and South America.
The natural habitat of the Jesus lizard is the rain forests of Central and South America.

The basilisk is an omnivore, meaning it will eat both plants and animals. Common prey for the Jesus lizard includes small insects, fish and vertebrates as well as various fruits and plant matter. Like many other lizards, the basilisk grows perpetually from birth to when it dies. They can get as large as 30 inches (75 centimeters), but they are more frequently seen around 12 inches (30 centimeters) or less. Aside from its ability to walk on water, this lizard's other defining characteristics include a large crest on its head, and sharp claws that adorn each toe.

The Jesus lizard is a popular pet lizard for many reptile aficionados. They are typically kept in a large aquarium or a lizard cage, either solitary or in groups, and require a good amount of heat and humidity in order to stay healthy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Jesus Lizard and why is it called that?

Jesus lizards live in tropical rain forests.
Jesus lizards live in tropical rain forests.

The Jesus Lizard, also known as the common basilisk, is a species of lizard famous for its ability to run on water, a trait that has earned it its biblical nickname. This remarkable ability is due to the lizard's specialized hind feet and unique gait, which create air pockets to keep it afloat for short distances.

How does the Jesus Lizard run on water?

The Jesus Lizard runs on water by rapidly churning its legs in a bicycling motion, which, along with its fringed toes, creates enough lift and surface tension to prevent it from sinking. According to researchers, this lizard can sprint at a velocity of about 1.5 meters per second across the water's surface.

Where can the Jesus Lizard be found in the wild?

The Jesus Lizard is native to Central and South America, thriving in tropical rainforests near bodies of water such as rivers, streams, and ponds. They are often found in areas with high humidity and ample vegetation, which provide ideal conditions for their insect-based diet and water-running behavior.

What do Jesus Lizards eat?

Jesus Lizards are omnivorous, primarily feeding on insects like beetles, grasshoppers, and flies. They also consume other small invertebrates, fruits, and occasionally small vertebrates. Their diet varies with availability and age, with juveniles tending to eat more insects compared to adults.

Are Jesus Lizards endangered?

As of the current knowledge cutoff, the Jesus Lizard is not considered endangered. However, habitat destruction and pollution pose threats to their populations. Conservation efforts are important to maintain their natural habitats and ensure the species' survival.

How do Jesus Lizards reproduce?

Jesus Lizards are oviparous, meaning they lay eggs. Females lay clutches of 10-20 eggs, which they bury in moist soil or leaf litter. The eggs incubate for about two to three months before hatching. The hatchlings are independent from birth and are able to run on water within a few hours.

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    • The Jesus lizard is a type of basilisk lizard.
      The Jesus lizard is a type of basilisk lizard.
    • The natural habitat of the Jesus lizard is the rain forests of Central and South America.
      By: photorebelle
      The natural habitat of the Jesus lizard is the rain forests of Central and South America.
    • Jesus lizards live in tropical rain forests.
      By: wildnerdpix
      Jesus lizards live in tropical rain forests.