Predation of Rhinophrynus dorsalis (Duméril and Bibron, 1841) (Anura: Rhinophrynidae) by Leptodeira rhombifera (Günther, 1872) (Serpentes: Dipsadidae), in Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Abstract

On 17 May 2018 (at 8:33PM), we did a nocturnal walk in Guanacaste National Park, Pocosol sector, Costa Rica, (10.89047°N, -85.59814°W, WGS 84, 200 m a.s.l.). Next to a small, dry stream with high soil moisture located inside a patch of forest, we observed an adult snake of the species Leptodeira rhombifera (Günther, 1872) holding the posterior parts (rump and left hind limb) of an adult Mexican burrowing toad in its mouth (Fig. 1). The toad kept immobile for a period of approximately 30 minutes, with its body inflated in defense mode to avoid being swallowed (Fig. 2). The snake held the toad, waiting for the venom to paralyze its prey completely. After that period, we left the place, to avoid a negative effect on the process of predation. We did not prove if the snake completely swallowed the anuran. However, the partial paralysis of the toad and the approximate length of the snake with respect to the size of the anuran, make us believe that the predation event was successful.