How do simple, flexible structures generate complex and coordinated movements? This is a fascinating question in the physics of active matter, which deals with systems whose individual components continuously consume energy to produce motion. Examples in nature include the tiny hair-like structures called cilia, which beat rhythmically to move fluids, and biological filaments driven by molecular motors. Our research explores how such movements and patterns can emerge from sim

Snakes exhibit a wide variety of gaits, including gliding in air and sidewinding on land, which is particularly notable for its out-of-plane motion. Here we report the observation of another non-planar gait used as an escape strategy from threatening situations by juvenile anacondas (Eunectes notaeus), which we refer to as the S-start due to its shape. In this transient mode of locomotion, the snake writhes and bends out of the plane while rolling forward about its midsection