‘Keep an eye out for cane toads,’ asks Ag Minister

A small number of cane toads, believed to have been brought into NSW from Queensland, have been detected at various locations in NSW, prompting a call from the NSW government for residents to keep an eye out for the unwanted pest.

Minister for Agriculture Adam Marshall said new cane toad incursions had recently been reported in the Sydney, North Coast, South Coast and North West regions.

“Cane toads are a serious biosecurity threat that can cause devastating impacts on communities, native wildlife, pets and ecosystems,” Mr Marshall said.

“It’s believed these pests hitchhiked their way into NSW from Queensland through freight, green waste or loads of timber, as they are known to do.

“So, I ask the Sydney, North Coast, South Coast and North West communities to help keep your regions safe by reporting any sightings to NSW Department of Primary Industries.

“If you’re coming from cane toad infested areas such as Queensland or the Northern Territory, please check your luggage, vehicle or trailer to ensure you are not unwittingly carrying an unwanted passenger.”

The public has been asked to report any suspected cane toads, as the specimen could be a native frog. The amphibian should not be killed if it has not been positively identified as a cane toad.

A suspected cane toad should be immediately reported to NSW DPI Biosecurity through its helpline on 1800 680 244 or by completing the online form or emailing a photo of the pest’s face and details to [email protected].

Mr Marshall said in recognition of the serious biosecurity threat posed by cane toads and to prevent their spread, the NSW government introduced a formal Biosecurity Zone for this species in 2019 under the NSW Biosecurity Act 2015.

“The best way to control the cane toad is to report their presence and manage them responsibly when detected,” Mr Marshall said.