Question 1

True or false: Basilisk lizards primarily eat insects, but also consume small vertebrates and fruits.

Accepted Answer

True. They are omnivorous, feasting on insects, spiders, small fish, frogs, and occasionally fruits and flowers in their rainforest habitat.

Question 2

True or false: Female basilisk lizards have a prominent crest on their head, unlike males.

Accepted Answer

False. Males have large, showy crests on head, back, and tail for display. Females have much smaller or absent crests.

Question 3

True or false: Basilisk lizards are named after the mythical basilisk serpent that could kill with a glance.

Accepted Answer

True. Their crests resemble the mythical basilisk's crown. The name was popularized by explorers noting the lizard's 'kingly' appearance.

Question 4

True or false: Basilisk lizards can run on water by slapping their feet flat against the surface, creating air pockets.

Accepted Answer

True. They slap feet down to trap air pockets, then push off. The fringed toes increase surface area, enabling this 'Jesus Christ lizard' trick.

Question 5

True or false: Only juvenile basilisk lizards can run on water; adults are too heavy for this ability.

Accepted Answer

False. Both juveniles and adults can run on water. Adults rely on speed and large feet with fringed toes, though they sink faster.

Question 6

True or false: Basilisk lizards can run on water for up to 400 feet before sinking.

Accepted Answer

False. They typically run only 10-20 feet on water. Their speed and surface tension allow short bursts, not marathon sprints.

Question 7

True or false: A basilisk lizard's tail can detach and continue wriggling to distract predators, like many geckos.

Accepted Answer

False. Basilisks can drop their tail (autotomy), but it doesn't wriggle as vigorously as geckos'. It's a last-ditch escape, not a primary defense.

Question 8

True or false: Basilisk lizards can hold their breath underwater for up to 30 minutes to hide from predators.

Accepted Answer

True. They are excellent swimmers and can stay submerged for 30 minutes or more, using air bubbles under scales as an oxygen reserve.

Basilisk Lizard Trivia Questions