You can take measures against this invasive species working its way through the Sunshine State
The invasion has begun. Floridians are starting to see the same pest that has so ravaged ecosystems in Australia and other parts of the world.
The cane toad is here.
Their presence isn’t new, however. These rough-skinned amphibians have been in the state since the 1930s, introduced to help curb insect populations that threaten agriculture. The experiment didn’t produce much in the way of results and the population failed to take hold. But during the last 60 years, releases of pet cane toads into the Florida environment have led to numerous sightings and, in some communities, infestations.
A map from the University of Georgia shows the distribution of toad sightings around the state, with some as far north as the panhandle. Most have been south of the I-4 corridor, with some of the heaviest concentrations around Miami and Fort Lauderdale.
An Invasive Pest
A recent story in the Atlantic describes how cane toads have overwhelmed Palm Beach Gardens, FL, loading residents’ swimming pools with their young and covering people’s yards. They show no signs of slowing down.
Here’s why their presence is such a problem: Cane toads are an invasive species, competing with native frogs and toads for food and breeding areas. And they’re enormous, the largest toad on species on the planet. The 5- to 9-inch-long adult is voracious and will eat anything that fits into its gaping mouth. The consequences of their migration can be devastating to local species, effectively wiping them out.
Here’s another problem, one that creates a great deal of concern: They can spell death to your dog or cat. Cane toads have bulging glands in their skin that secrete a poison capable of killing a much larger animal. It’s a milky, sticky toxin that can be fatal to a dog or other animal that bites into the pest.
Identification
Identifying them isn’t always easy, either. Cane toads’ bumpy skin is reddish- or yellowish-brown, mottled underneath. Juveniles may be difficult to distinguish from beneficial, native toads. Adults, as mentioned earlier, are very large. If you see a toad that is bigger than any you’ve ever imagined, it’s probably a cane toad. Their pronounced toxin-producing glands sit atop each shoulder. Here’s a helpful video on how to identify distinguish a cane toad from a native toad.
If you spot the toad in your neighborhood and have concerns, fence in pet areas and place a fine mesh around the bottom of the fencing. Keeping yard lights turned off at night can also help because the toads eat insects that swarm around lights. In addition, keep pet bowls out of the yard – the toads are drawn to the food. Clear out dark, brush areas they can use as hiding spots.
Take Precautions
If you come into physical contact with a cane toad, be sure to wash your hands carefully. Obviously, keep children and pets away from them. Here are some symptoms of toad poisoning to look for in a dog.
Read more about cane toads, their distribution and how to identify them from the University of Florida.
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