Crossword Genius

Small creature with digits for ears (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

toad

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'small creature' is the definition.
'toad' can be an answer for 'creature' (toad is a kind of creature). I'm not sure about the 'small' bit.

'digits for ears' is the wordplay.
I cannot quite understand how this works, but
'for' could be 'to' (eg both can mean 'in the opinion of') and 'to' is found in the answer.
The remaining letters 'ad' is a valid word which might be clued in a way I don't see.
This explanation may well be incorrect...

'with' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for toad that I've seen before include "Wind in Willows motorist" , "Froglike animal or repulsive person" , "Tailless amphibian" , "Amphibian with warts" , "Small amphibian" .)

I've seen this clue in The Sunday Times and The Times.
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