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Western basilisk
A species of Jesus christ lizards Scientific name : Basiliscus galeritus Genus : Jesus christ lizards
Western basilisk, A species of Jesus christ lizards
Scientific name: Basiliscus galeritus
Genus: Jesus christ lizards
Content
Description General Info
![Western basilisk (Basiliscus galeritus)](/wiki-image/1080/152410131471007744.jpeg)
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Description
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The western basilisk, or red-headed basilisk (Basiliscus galeritus), is a large species of corytophanid lizard from northwestern South America.
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General Info
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Lifespan
6-8 years
Diet
Western basilisk primarily feeds on insects and plant materials such as leaves and fruits. This species exploits its arboreal lifestyle to garner a diverse diet, which occasionally includes small vertebrates.
Appearance
Western basilisk is a medium-sized lizard with a tall, pointed crest along the length of its body and tail. Its skin is rough and brownish-grey, with lighter underparts. Males are larger and sport a higher crest and dewlap. The most striking feature is its fin-like tail, which aids in swimming and acts as a rudder. While juveniles resemble adults, their coloration is more vivid and their crest and dewlap less pronounced.
Behavior
Western basilisk are arboreal, displaying skilled navigation within the treetops. A solitary reptile, they exhibit territory defense against rivals. Specializing in sit-and-wait strategies, they prey primarily on arthropods and small vertebrates. Their fringed toes aid in water skimming, an iconic escape behavior when startled.
![Western basilisk (Basiliscus galeritus)](/wiki-image/1080/152410131471007744.jpeg)
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![Western basilisk (Basiliscus galeritus)](/wiki-image/1080/152410131471007744.jpeg)
![](/wiki-static/name/47df59da85f3180c795013797a9d3d83/website/img/icon/field_icons/icon_scientific_spieces@2x.png)
Scientific Classification
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Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Casquehead lizards Genus
Jesus christ lizards Species
Western basilisk