Brooklyn Decker "ate slugs" in the garden as a child.

The former Sports Illustrated model is pursuing an acting career, appearing in movies such as Battleship and What To Expect When You're Expecting.

She may be a sophisticated Hollywood starlet now, but the 25-year-old preferred to spend her childhood playing unusual games.

"[I was a] tomboy, oh my gosh. Total tomboy," she exclaimed to British magazine OK!

"I mean my brother and I ate slugs in the backyard. Disgusting. I never played pretty, pretty princess."

Brooklyn, who is married to former tennis player Andy Roddick, put her career as a swimwear model on hold to take on acting roles.

The star hasn't modelled for about a year and a half, but doesn't regret her decision.

"To be honest, no [I don't miss modelling]," she confessed.

"At the end of the day, you're not doing much with your mind. So, for me, I miss the people I work with, but I feel more stimulated acting."