i really don't believe that ratties or mice even know that the snake is going to eat them to be honest. i've had mice go right into my snake's hide and sniff around... and come back out unharmed. they sniff the snakes tail... and wander around.

most likely the rattie was just stressed out and was standing really still trying to figure out where he was and what was going on in his life...

i do have some advice for you though. never reach in and remove your snake when there's a prey item in with it... especially when you can tell your snake is interested in eating... as you will get bit! only put your hand in IF you snake shows no interest in eating at all.