Cane Toads

Following the discovery of Cane Toads on a local property in 2022 Mandalong residents were put on high alert.

Cane toads are a serious biosecurity threat which can have devastating impacts on our community, our pets, native wildlife and ecosystems we care for.

cane_toad

The NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) commenced working on the site in conjunction with Local Land Services, Lake Macquarie City Council, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, the University of Newcastle and Landcare to assess and eradicate the infestation.

A meeting of the Mandalong residents was addressed by the Invasive Species Officer Victoria Greentree. Residents were called upon to play a major and ongoing role in stopping these pests from spreading across the valley and broader NSW.

Residents were urged to:

  • Keep an eye out for cane toads on our own properties especially at night around lights and pet food bowls.
  • Learn how to identify a cane toad so as not to inadvertently harm a native frog.
  • Go to: https://australian.museum/learn/animals/frogs/cane-toad/
  • Become familiar with recommended catching methods.
  • Search the internet and you will find many ways to trap and catch cane toads.  The important thing to remember is that when handling toads you need to wear protective gloves and eyewear as they may exude a poison from their parotid glands which sit behind their head.
  • Download the free ToadScan App from:  https://www.feralscan.org.au/toadscan/
  • Report cane toad sightings.
  • Call: Lake Macquarie City Council, or
    NSW DPI Biosecurity Helpline 1800 680 244, or
    Submit an online form at https://www.feralscan.org.au/toadscan/