Basilisk Lizards – Fast Facts and Simple Care Guide

If you’ve ever seen a lizard sprint across water like a tiny dinosaur, you’ve probably watched a basilisk. These guys are famous for their "Jesus lizard" nickname because they can dash across shallow streams without sinking. Below you’ll get the basics on what makes them special and how to keep one happy at home.

What Makes Basilisk Lizards Unique?

Basilisks belong to the family Corytophanidae and are native to Central and South America’s rainforests. Their most eye‑catching trait is a fringe of long scales on their toes that creates enough surface area to support quick water runs. On land they’re just as fast, sprinting up to 5 mph to escape predators. Their colors range from bright green to brown, helping them blend into leaves and branches. Males sport a big crest on their heads and backs – a clear sign of dominance during mating season.

Keeping a Basilisk Lizard at Home

Setting up a proper vivarium is the first step. Aim for a 40‑gallon tank for a single adult; bigger is always better. Provide a humidity level of 70‑80 % and a basking spot that reaches 95‑100 °F. Use a UVB lamp for 10‑12 hours a day to keep their metabolism healthy. Include branches, live plants, and a shallow water pool deep enough for them to practice their water‑run – about 2‑3 inches works well.

Diet is mostly insects: crickets, roaches, and small mealworms. Feed them 2‑3 times a week, dusting each bug with a calcium supplement to support bone health. Offer a few pieces of fruit or soft veggies once a week for variety. Fresh water should be available at all times, and change it daily to avoid bacterial build‑up.

When handling, be gentle and let the lizard climb onto your hand first. They can be shy, so short, calm sessions are best. Over‑handling can stress them and lead to health problems, so keep handling to a few minutes a day.

Watch for signs of illness: loss of appetite, dull color, or shedding issues. If you notice any of these, a reptile‑savvy vet should see the lizard right away.

Overall, basilisk lizards are rewarding pets for owners who can replicate their humid, warm environment and give them space to run. Their quirky water‑running habit makes them a conversation starter in any room.

Ready to add a basilisk to your reptile family? Start with a well‑planned enclosure, feed a balanced insect diet, and enjoy watching this little jungle runner conquer both land and water.