North American basilisk (SciiFii)

The North American basilisk (Basiliscus americanum), also known as the North American Jesus Christ lizard, the North American Jesus lizard, and the northern water-walking lizard, is a species of lizard in the family Corytophanidae, most closely related to the common basilisk, that originally did not exist, but has since been created by SciiFii and introduced throughout the rainforests, wetlands, humid forests, and humid open woodlands across Canada, the United States, and Mexico to help boost biodiversity. The North American basilisk can be distinguished from similar basilisk species by its large size, its coloration, and the high fin-like crest along its back. Most North American basilisks are brown and green in color. Males also have high crests on the head and tail. Both sexes are brown to deep green, and have a white, cream, or light green stripe on the upper lip and a second stripe along either side of the body; these stripes have higher contrast in juveniles and fade as the lizards age. Hatchlings weigh a mere 2 grams (0.071 oz) and are 38 to 43 mm (1.5 to 1.7 in) long. Adults can grow to a total length (including tail) of 76 cm (2.5 feet). Females are generally 135 to 194 g (4.8 to 6.8 oz), and weigh half as much as males. The tail comprises 70 to 75% of the total length: for example, a 70-cm-long (27.5-inch-long) North American basilisk would have a 50-cm-long (19.5-inch-long) tail. The North American basilisk has a large mouth with saw-like teeth on the inner sides of the jaw. The North American basilisk is an omnivore; its diet consists of insects, for example, beetles or dragon flies; flowers, and small vertebrates such as snakes, birds, eggs, and fish. Unlike other basilisk species, the North American basilisk tolerates temperatures as low as 31 °F (-0.5 °C). While the North American basilisk is most known for its ability to run on water, it is also an excellent climber and swimmer, and has been known to stay underwater for up to half an hour. The average lifespan is seven years in captivity; in the wild, it tends to be less because of predators. When startled, the North American basilisk escapes by speeding to the nearest edge of water—and continues sprinting. The lizard runs on only its hind legs in an erect position, holding its forelegs to its sides. The North American basilisk is adroit on water because its feet are large and equipped with flaps of skin along the toes that allow it to catch on tiny air bubbles. When moving quickly, the lizard can cross a surface of water before sinking. On water, it runs an average speed of 24.1 km/h (or 15 mph), which is just a little slower than its speed on land. Younger basilisks can run 10 to 20 m (33 to 66 ft) on water, while adults cross only a few meters before sinking. Adults do not move slowly, but they weigh more and cannot sprint for as long a time. Once a basilisk submerges, it continues swimming until it is sufficiently far from its pursuer — if the predator has followed past the bank. Although the North American basilisk stays close to water to escape terrestrial predators, it swims only when necessary because some other aquatic animals would eat it given the chance. The conservation status of the North American basilisk is Least Concern due to successful conservation efforts, the North American basilisk's wide range and its tolerance to many of the human activities.
Category:Animals
Category:Species
Category:SciiFii