How do snakes breathe while eating?

Snakes have a unique way of breathing while eating due to their fixed trachea. As they swallow their prey, the trachea gets pushed to the side by the expanding esophagus, allowing them to continue breathing. Their glottis, a valve-like structure at the entrance of the trachea, closes off to prevent food from entering the lungs. Snakes primarily rely on this process for respiration while eating, but they can still take in a minimal amount of oxygen through their skin. Once the prey is fully swallowed, the trachea returns to its normal position, and the snake resumes regular breathing.