clawed feet and a tail. As Smithsonian magazine’s Mike Dash wrote in 2012, the basilisk “was a bizarre hybrid” that was “feared for centuries throughout Europe and North Africa.” ...

the basilisk resorts to its excellent swimming skills to continue its flight. Part of the iguana family, green basilisks grow to about 2 feet in length, including their long, whip-like tail.

The plumed basilisk has crest-like plumes on its head, back and tail. Its bright-green coloration, often adorned with bluish markings, provides excellent camouflage in their forested habitats.