Attempted Predation of Western Desert Tarantula By Sonoran Desert Toad

Abstract Sonoran Desert toads (Incilius alvarius) are known to consume invertebrates, small lizards, other toads, and mice. Here we report an attempt by a Sonoran Desert toad to consume a western desert tarantula (Aphonopelma chalcodes) at Sabino Canyon, Arizona. Despite nearly being completely swallowed, the tarantula was able to escape after a struggle lasting ≥50 s, likely due to defensive bites and urticating hairs.