Cane toad is a highly adaptable and notorious amphibian species native to South and Central America. However, its introduction to various countries for pest control purposes has led to unforeseen ecological consequences, earning it a notorious reputation in some regions.
Initially introduced to combat agricultural pests, the cane toad quickly revealed its opportunistic nature as a predator. This adaptable amphibian is known to consume a wide variety of prey, including household rubbish, small rodents, insects, and even birds. Its indiscriminate appetite and ability to devour almost anything it encounters have contributed to its invasive success in many parts of the world.
One of the most infamous introductions of the cane toad occurred in Australia. In an attempt to control the population of the destructive cane beetle, the toads were introduced to Queensland in 1935. However, this endeavor backfired spectacularly, as the toads failed to control the beetles effectively and instead became a severe pest themselves. Their population in Australia has exploded to epidemic proportions, with estimates suggesting that over 200 million cane toads now inhabit the continent.
The presence of cane toads has wreaked havoc on Australia’s native ecosystems. They outcompete and threaten local wildlife, as their toxic skin secretions deter potential predators. Many native species, including small mammals and reptiles, have suffered declines in their populations due to the introduction of this invasive species.
As the cane toad population has surged, they have resorted to cannibalism as a survival strategy when food sources become scarce. This phenomenon underscores the adaptability and resilience of these toads, which, despite their own toxic skin secretions, will consume fellow cane toads when necessary.
Distribution
Antigua & Barbuda
Aruba
Australia
Barbados
Belize
Bolivia
Brazil
Colombia
Costa Rica
Dominican Republic
Ecuador
El Salvador
French Guiana
Grenada
Guadeloupe
Guam
Guatemala
Guyana
Haiti
Honduras
Jamaica
Japan
Martinique
Mexico
Montserrat
Nicaragua
Nort. Mariana Is.
Panama
Papua New Guinea
Peru
Philippines
Puerto Rico
Saint Lucia
Saint Vincent
Solomon Islands
St. Kitts & Nevis
Suriname
Taiwan
Trinidad & Tobago
US Virgin Islands
United States
United States
VenezuelaAnything we've missed?
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Terrestrial / Aquatic
Altricial / Precocial
Polygamous / Monogamous
Dimorphic / Monomorphic
Active: Diurnal / Nocturnal
Social behavior: Solitary / Pack / Herd
Diet: Carnivore / Herbivore / Omnivore / Piscivorous / Insectivore
Migratory: Yes / No
Domesticated: Yes / No
Dangerous: Yes / No
