Basilisk lizard, also known as Jesus lizard, is one of the most unusual reptiles on our planet. They live in the tropical and subtropical forests in Mexico, Central and South America.

One of the most special feature of these lizards is that they can run extremely fast over water and do not sink. That is why they got such unusual name "Jesus lizard."  But it's not about their “holiness”, speed and physical features are important. 

Common basilisks can reach unusual speeds – up to 20 km/h on ground and 8.5 km/h on water. This super speed and light weight help the basilisk lizard to easily run on water. In addition, the ability to move on the surface of the water is provided by long toes on its rear feat along with fringes of skin that unfurl in the water and create little air pockets under the lizard’s feet to give it lift.

Thus, basilisks escape from predators.  They always try to be not far away from a body of water. Young ones can run up to 20 meters on the surface of the water, while adults can cross only a few meters. These lizards are excellent swimmers. When they feel that it is no longer possible to run, they dive and can stay under water for up to half an hour.

But Basilisk lizards aren’t the only animals that can run on water. Some insects, such as water striders and marsh mantises, are also able to move on the surface of the water using their legs.