Facts about Basilisk Lizard Running
- 06
A basilisk lizard escapes predators by dropping from a branch or shoreline vegetation directly onto the water surface and sprinting away on two legs.
- 05
Running on water earns basilisk lizards their common nickname 'the Jesus Christ lizard,' a reference to the biblical account of walking on water.
- 04
Fringed scales along the toes of basilisk lizards increase the surface area of each foot strike, helping generate the upward force needed for water locomotion.
- 03
Young basilisk lizards are more capable of sustained water-running than adults, as increased body weight makes it harder to generate sufficient upward force with age.
- 02
Basilisk lizards can sprint across water at speeds of roughly 1.5 meters per second, allowing them to cover short distances before sinking.
- 01
The basilisk lizard can run across the surface of water on its hind legs, a feat enabled by rapid foot slaps that trap air pockets beneath its toes.