Nature Field Guide
Common Basilisk
- Spanish name
- Basilisco común
- Scientific name
- Basiliscus basiliscus
What Do Pico & Tati Think?
Pico and Tati invite you to learn about the common basilisk. Draw the tail and hind feet from a reference photograph. Never frighten a basilisk to make it run.
Species overview
About the Common Basilisk
A long-tailed lizard associated with Pacific-slope waterways. Its long toes help it move along banks, and smaller individuals can briefly run across water when escaping.
Identification
Key Features of the Common Basilisk
Very long tail.
Brown or olive body with pale stripes and dark bands.
Adult males have prominent crests on the head, back and tail.
Habitat & range
Pacific lowland dry and moist forests near streams and rivers.
Local observations
Recorded in Costa Rica. This profile describes suitable habitat, not a confirmed Tamarindo sighting or a guaranteed viewing location.
When to observe
Daytime near wooded waterways.
Conservation & care
Watch wildlife with an adult from a safe path. Do not touch, feed, capture or move reptiles, and keep pets away. Leave eggs, shelters and vegetation undisturbed.
Observation activity
Draw the tail and hind feet from a reference photograph. Never frighten a basilisk to make it run.
Explore by location
Central Pacific · Guanacaste · Puntarenas & the Gulf Islands · South Pacific