Green Basilisk

Theme area:  Amazonía
Scientific name:  Basiliscus plumifrons
Class:  Reptiles
Continent:  South America
Habitat:  Tropical forest
Diet:  Omnivore
Weight:  Hasta 300 gr
Size:  70 - 90 cm
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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

DID YOU KNOW ...

It is an excellent diver and is able to stay underwater for up to 30 minutes.
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