BASIC CARE SHEET FOR THE GREEN BASILISK

BASIC CARE SHEET FOR THE GREEN BASILISK

Common Name: Green (Plumed) Basilisk
Scientific Name: Basiliscus plumifrons
Distribution: Guatemala to Costa Rica


NATURAL HABITAT :

This mainly arboreal lizard is found in the dense foliage
of tropical rain forests. They range from Costa Rica to
Columbia. In captivity, adults need a enclosure 60"x 16"x 24"

BEHAVIOUR :

Males can become territorial, Keep separate from other males.
Usually Quite tame, but easily stressed if handled to frequently.
Likes a lot of cover, and requires a well ventilated vivarium.
CAPTIVE ENVIRONMENT :

Use UV lighting 12-14 hours per day (Arcadia D3).
Provide a basking area with access to a cooler area.
This lizard likes plenty of hiding places (imitation plants)
and lots of climbing branches.

TEMPERATURE :

Daytime temperature should be:
Basking Area 95 to 105 degrees F.
Cool Area 80 degrees F.
Night temperature should range between 65-75 degrees F.
Use a reptile heat mat for 24-hour ground heat inside the vivarium.

HUMIDITY / WATER REQUIREMENTS :

These lizards require a constant high level of humidity.
Supply a large fairly deep bowl for drinking and soaking.
Mist the vivarium at least every other day.

NUTRITIONAL REQUIREMENTS :

This lizard is an omnivore (will eat both meat and plants).
Likes dark greens (collard, turnip, dandelions).
Also eats insects, brown or black crickets, waxworm, mealworms.
Supplement greens diet with ( greenbeans, sprouts, and other vegetables).
You can also include a small amount fruit (Bananas, mangos, figs).