Plumed Basilisk Basiliscus plumifrons

The Plumed Basilisk, also called the Green Basilisk, is a water-loving lizard. As the alternative name indicates, it is basically green. It is native to Central America. The name Basilisk is from a mythical reptile with a mitre or crown on its head, whose look can turn one to stone.

Basilisks are also called Jesus Christ Lizards since they (all species of Basilisk) can run upright over water using their long tails for balance/float.

They can moderate their colour a little to blend with the background. The male, above, has a crest on his head, back and tail.

The female (above) has only a small lump on the head and a small raised keel along the back and tail.

Adults can reach over 2 feet in length, of which two-thirds is tail.