is for Basilisk, Barracuda and Buzzard. We’ll look at Basilisk.
There are many lizards but the Green, Plumed, or Double-Crested Basilisk is one of the best-known. The creature has a bright green skin and, distinctive yellow eyes. From head to tip of tail it carries an almost continuous fin, or crest.
There are stretchable areas of skin between its toes similar to, but not as pronounced as those on an amphibian like a frog, toad or newt. The Basilisk can swim underwater for up to 30 minutes.
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Species: The Basilisk is a member of the Iguana family of lizards.
Size: The average length from nose to tail is 25cm, however they are known to reach 90cm.
Habitat: The sub-species can be found in tropical rain forest and, rocky formations, usually where there is a water source.
Location: Generally found across Central America: Western Panama, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Honduras.
Diet: Basilisk species are omnivores and will eat insects, small rodents, smaller lizards and, vegetation including flowers.
Predators: Snakes and birds.
Info / Strange Fact: The Basilisk is famed for its ability to ‘run’ on water in an upright stance on its hind legs and tail. Hence the creature is known in some quarters as the ‘Jesus Lizard’.
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The “Jesus Lizard” that’s a great nickname. I’m thinking of the giant basilisk from JK Rowling’s book. I would freak out a little if I stumbled on one.
Mary at Play off the Page
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Lost on me if we’re referring to Harry Potter … yes, I’m the only man in the world who hasn’t read the books or seen all the films.
To be fair, I’m also the only man in the world who thought ’50 Shades …’ was rubbish – apart from being the springboard to me trying my hand at erotica. 🙂
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Very informative. Like the commenter above, my first thought was of the basilisk from Harry Potter, but after reading this and looking at your photo the real basilisk seems much nicer!
Debbie
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Hi Debbie. As I said to Mary, I’m not a Potter fan. I’ve always thought the basilisk was a wonderful creature. If you didn’t know it’s size it gives the impression of both ‘dragon’ and ‘prehistoric’ beast.
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Fascinating! Thanks for sharing:)
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Apart from mixing quick sketches with photos (which avoids the copyright issue), I’m aiming to mix what might appear regular creatures with those we don’t hear much about. 🙂
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Lol, you say basilisk, and I immediately picture Harry Potter! 😀
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Everybody is referring to Harry Potter and it means nothing to me, so I’ll have to check it out. I saw the first movie but never bothered with any others – or the books.
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