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Brown Basilisk

(Basiliscus vittatus)

 

Category: Reptiles

 

 

Basilisks are native to Mexico, Central America, and northwestern Columbia. They have been nicknamed “Jesus Christ lizards” due to their ability to sprint quickly over the surface of water when fleeing predators, aided by their webbed feet. They are further distinguishable by their three crests on their head, body, and tail – if you’re lucky enough to spot one of these masters of camouflage.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brown_basilisk

http://www.reptilesmagazine.com/Lizard-Species/Brown-Basilisk-(Striped-or-Common)/

 

Data & Facts

Scientific Classification
Kingdom - Animalia
Phylum - Chordata
Class - Sauropsida
Order - Squamata
Family - Corytophanidae
Genus - Basiliscus
Species - B. vittatus

 
Did you know?
Interesting Animal Facts

The report of my breath was an exaggeration

For years, the Komodo dragon was accused of having a mouth so filthy that even if you escaped its terrible bite, you were doomed to eventually die from the ensuing bacterial infection. However, recent studies on Komodo dragons demonstrated that this was unfair, as they have mouths cleaner than many mammalian carnivores. It turns out the reality is worse than the myth: they have poison glands! Komodo dragons produce a venom that sends prey into shock while keeping its blood from clotting. A deer or pig who “escapes” will run off and go into shock, often bleeding out from its wounds within 3 hours, leaving an easy treat for the dragon.

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