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Species - Basiliscus basiliscus. Family - Iguanidae. Location - Central and South American rainforests. Near rivers and streams. Size - 2 & 1/2 feet long including the tail. Deit - Insects, small invertebrates, flowers, and small vertebrates (like snakes, birds, and fish). Enemies - Large birds of prey, snakes, fish, other large reptiles, and mammals. This animal is not endangered.
They are part of the Iguana Family. They have the nickname "Jesus Christ Lizard" because when fleeing from a predator, they are very fast and can even run on top of the water. Basilisks actually have large hind feet with flaps of skin between each toe. The fact that they move quickly across the water, aided by their web-like feet, gives them the appearance of "walking on water". Smaller basilisks can run about 10-20 meters on the water without sinking. Young basilisks can usually run farther than older ones. Like most reptiles, basilisks are active during the day. They have long toes and sharp claws. Most are under a foot in length, but some may grow up to two feet. Basilisks usually weigh between 200-600 grams. Their maximum lifespan is probably around 7-8 years. In the wild, most die much sooner. Females lay about 2-18 eggs, five to eight times a year. Eggs hatch after about three months and the babies weigh about 2 grams. Their outstanding camouflage allows them to remain motionless and very hard to detect.
For a picture go to: http://www.ohs.osceola.k12.fl.us/teachers/animals/rljclizard