This semi-flat creature, living in the savannas of the Gran Chaco (Argentina), has long been the hero of well-worn memes. But in reality, the shieldback or frog Badjit is not as cute as it seems at first glance. 
In its normal state, this creature, averaging 10 cm in size, resembles a semi-liquid puddle, equipped with a bottomless little sheep and two attentive button eyes. But when the time comes for a glorious hunt or there is a real threat, the cellular substance is transformed and turns into a pimply bun. The next step of the shieldback is a wondrous oration that will plunge even the most fearless citizens into a state of shock. 
Despite its wide, attractive face and apparent good nature, the scutum is a terrible and almost constantly hungry predator. It turned out that nature endowed the frog with a specific digestive system: an impressive mouth abruptly turns into an almost bottomless stomach, which ends in a laconic intestine. In this regard, this sweet creature almost always experiences hellish hunger. And dreams only of food. 
Moreover, protein. The toothless creature with an enviable appetite eats snails, crustaceans, small fish, even rodents. He does not disdain his own kind. Therefore, it is even strange that the shieldbacks, with their penchant for cannibalism, have not yet become extinct. The hunt is completely inhumane: the toad opens its mouth in a friendly manner, and when it catches trusting prey, it closes it and waits patiently until the victim stops fluttering. And then, with a clear conscience, he begins the meal. 
Apparently, the preservation of the species is still facilitated by the way of life. After all, with the arrival of the dry season, all the small reservoirs in which frogs live dry up. And the shieldbacks have to sleep in the mud for most of the year, protecting the carcass from drying out with a dense layer of mucus.
These creatures reproduce with enviable enthusiasm. One female produces more than 1000 eggs at a time. After a few days, the flickering children already achieve independence. But not everyone survives, because the little cannibals are very hungry. And they satisfy their appetite with what is nearby - their own brothers and sisters. 
Shieldbacks are suitable for home keeping. In captivity, with good care, they can live up to 10 years, delighting the owner with a touching appearance, excellent appetite and heartbreaking screams.
This fat butt should only be kept alone, because only one will survive. Even the owner can be bitten by the toad when transferred to another container. But this survival technique has proven itself to be excellent, because the evil cuties live happily ever after and are not going to die out.
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