Cool Stuff: Lizards Walking on Water

 

 

When we were discussing the unique properties of water, I mentioned that the hydrogen bonds that occur within between water molecules makes water "sticky".  I showed you a picture of some insects (water striders) who were able to "walk" on water due to the surface tension. 

It turns out that some lizards are able to walk on water as well.

The basilik lizard from Central America is sometimes known as the "Jesus Lizard" for its ability to run on the water.  The pygmy gecko is so small that it is able to "float" on the water.

Interesting article
http://news.bbc.co.uk/earth/hi/earth_news/newsid_8304000/8304139.stm

Video of basilik lizard from National Geographic.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=45yabrnryXk

Video of pygmy gecko from the BBC.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/nature/life/Gecko#p004rqsj