the toad makes itself big
Choosing a prey
Predators choose among potential prey. For example, those that are too big can be difficult to subdue, tear apart or swallow. A predator chooses the prey that is easiest to handle.
Big jaws
Snakes are not able to tear their food into smaller pieces. They have to swallow the prey whole and, for that purpose, they have flexible jaws that can open very wide. But even snakes have their limits.
Mighty toad
The fast-moving grass snake can easily overtake a toad. But although the toad is slow, it can make itself bigger. It expands its body by drawing extra air into the lungs and rising on its legs. The grass snake hesitates, and if the trick succeeds, the snake gives up.
