Two Cane Toads have been found in Glen Innes. Cane toads are a serious invasive pest which would have devastating impacts on biodiversity if allowed to establish.
Both cane toads are reported to have “hitched a ride” to Glen Innes from Queensland in a stock truck. One of the toads was identified by National Parks & Wildlife Ranger, Peter Croft.
We are calling on the Glen Innes community to help keep our region safe from pests by checking for toads and reporting possible sightings. The best time to look is on warm rainy nights, however you can also look in spots they may be sheltering during the day or cool weather.
“With a bit of rain around and humidity, it’s unfortunately the perfect conditions for toads but we don’t want them to make themselves at home here and we’re asking travellers to please ensure they are not bringing toads unwittingly into our area, stowed away in their trucks, cars or caravans. It is very important to be vigilant,” said Mark Tarrant, Northern Tablelands Local Land Services Pest Animals Team Leader.
Cane Toads prefer open, disturbed habitats close to water e.g. around sprinklers, taps, ponds, air conditioners, drains, dams, riverbanks, cleared areas, and golf courses. They are often found on roads, footpaths and walking tracks, particularly if they are lit up at night as the lights attract insects that toads feed on.
They are also often found in drainpipes, crevices between rocks, hollows under trees, leaf litter or dense vegetation on the ground. They will always be close to the ground because toads don’t climb or jump higher than 50 cm.
If you think you have spotted a Cane Toad, follow these steps:
• Always wear protective gloves and eyewear when handling potential cane toads. They extrude (and sometimes squirt) poison from glands positioned behind the head.
• The animal should be collected and held in a closed, well-ventilated, non-toxic container, with some water.
• DON'T HARM THE ANIMAL until we confirm what it is. There are similarities between the Eastern Banjo Frog or Pobblebonk and cane toads – they can be confused easily and are often misidentified.
• Photograph the animal and report it to NSW DPI using this online reporting form www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/biosecurity/sighting or email invasive.species@dpi.nsw.gov.au
If you notice anything unusual or are aware of a plant or animal disease threat, please contact Northern Tablelands Local Land Services on 02 6732 8800.
