Cane Toads

Cane toads were first detected in Darwin in 2005, after migrating from Queensland where they were introduced in 1935 as an unsuccessful biological control for cane beetles. Their highly toxic poison is deadly to many native fauna species that we enjoy watching in our yards. Many of our local species of lizards, birds are frogs are declining in numbers trying to out compete cane toads.

We continue to look into the best methods to control cane toad populations, however there is no broadscale way to control this pest, find a report by a George Brown Memorial Scholarship winner on possible reduction methods.

How can I help?

The best way you can help is look out for and collect cane toads you find in your own yard or join one of the cane toad busts organised around the Darwin community.

Humane disposal

Although Cane toads are a pest it is still important we dispose of them as humanely as possible as they are still a living creature.

To dispose of a toad humanely,

  • Ensure you wear protective clothing such as eye protection and gloves to collect toads,
  • put your bagged toad in the refrigerator at four degrees for an hour so that it becomes unconscious.
  • Then transfer the toad to the freezer for at least 16 hours.
  • You can bury the toad or put it in the compost as it is a safe natural fertiliser.
  • Make sure the toad is away from pets.

 

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