Green Basilisk

The Green Basilisk is found in the wild from Mexico, throughout Central America and as far south as Ecuador.

It is an arboreal species, usually found perched on low branches, hiding from prey and predators.

There is clear sexual dimorphism, with the male having a showy crest on its head, back and tail, while the female has a smaller crest and none on its back and tail. It has powerful hind legs that allow it to run over water at a speed of 2-3 metres per second over a distance of about 20 metres. To do this, it must move its feet very fast because if it slows down it will sink and will have to continue on its way by swimming.

The male is very territorial. About three weeks after mating, the female lays 4-17 eggs that will hatch in 8 to 10 weeks.

It is under threat from habitat loss due to agricultural expansion and logging.

Conservation Status

Extinct

Extinct in the wild

Critically endangered

Endangered

Vulnerable

Near threatened

Least concern

Insufficient data

Not evaluated