A hognose snake may roll onto its back and fake a gruesome death when threatened. This defensive behavior, called death-feigning or thanatosis, can make a predator lose interest in what appears to be a dead, unappealing meal.
The performance is remarkably elaborate. A hognose may first flatten its neck, hiss, raise its head, and bluff-strike with its mouth closed. If that fails, it can roll over, open its mouth, let its tongue hang out, release foul-smelling musk, and remain motionless. Some individuals even roll back over if a person turns them upright.
Hognose snakes are known for their upturned snouts, which help them dig through loose soil and sand. North American species, including the eastern hognose snake, often specialize in eating toads and can tolerate toxins in toad skin. Although they have mildly venomous saliva delivered by rear teeth, they are generally harmless to humans and are frequently mistaken for more dangerous snakes.