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A member of the iguana family, the green basilisk lizard spends most of its time in the trees and is never far from water.

green basilisk with mouth open

Did You Know?

Basilisks can run on their hind legs. Their speed, coupled with specialized scales on their feet, allows them to sprint across the water's surface.

Quick Facts

Latin Name:
Basiliscus plumifrons

Range:
Central America

Habitat:
Tropical rainforest

Length:
2 to 3 ft

Zoo Location:
Manatee Springs

Diet:
Seeds, fruit, leaves, insects and other small animals