The cane toad (Rhinella marina) is a large, nonnative amphibian classified as an invasive species in Florida. These toads are a significant nuisance in urban and suburban areas, reaching up to nine inches in length. They secrete a potent toxin that poses a danger to pets and native wildlife. Understanding the cane toad’s presence and characteristics helps residents manage this environmental challenge effectively.
Geographic Spread and Introduction History
The cane toad was introduced to Florida through multiple events dating back to the 1930s. Initial attempts involved importing the species for biological pest control in sugar cane fields, though this early population did not survive. Current populations are primarily descended from accidental and intentional releases by pet importers in the 1950s and 1960s, including a notable release near the Miami airport.
The established range covers much of central and south Florida, generally thriving in areas south of the I-4 corridor. This includes heavy populations in the Florida Keys and counties like Miami-Dade and Broward. These adaptable amphibians prefer human-modified habitats such as suburban yards, agricultural lands, and golf courses, rather than deep natural areas.
Identifying Cane Toads Versus Native Species
Distinguishing the invasive cane toad from native Florida species, such as the Southern Toad, is important before taking control measures. The most obvious characteristic of an adult cane toad is its massive size, typically ranging from six to nine inches in length. In contrast, the largest native Florida toads rarely exceed four inches, meaning any toad over four inches is highly likely to be the invasive species.
Identification clues are also found on the head. Cane toads lack the prominent cranial crests, or bony ridges, visible on the heads of native Southern Toads. They possess large, triangular parotoid glands located behind their eyes, which angle backward over the shoulders. These glands are notably larger and more triangular than the small, oval-shaped glands found on native toads.
Understanding the Toxicity and Immediate Danger
The cane toad’s danger comes from bufotoxin, a milky-white substance released from the large parotoid glands when the toad feels threatened. This neurotoxin is highly potent and rapidly absorbed through the mucous membranes of any animal that licks, bites, or consumes the toad. The poison can be fatal to domestic pets, such as dogs and cats, in as little as 15 minutes without immediate treatment.
Symptoms of poisoning progress quickly, demanding immediate attention. Initial signs include profuse drooling or frothing at the mouth, frantic head-shaking, and the gums turning a bright, brick-red color. As the toxin attacks the central nervous system, symptoms escalate to loss of coordination, muscle tremors, and severe convulsions or seizures.
If exposure occurs, immediate first aid is crucial. Rinse the pet’s mouth for ten minutes with a hose or faucet, carefully pointing the head downward to flush the toxin forward and prevent water inhalation. Wipe the gums and tongue with a wet cloth to remove the residual toxin, followed by immediate transport to a veterinary clinic.
Safe Management and Control Guidelines
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) encourages landowners to remove cane toads from private property. These amphibians are not protected in Florida, except by anti-cruelty laws, and can be humanely killed year-round. It is illegal to relocate or release a captured cane toad, as this contributes to the spread of the invasive species.
Safe handling requires wearing protective gear, such as nitrile or rubber gloves, to prevent contact with the bufotoxin, which can irritate human eyes and skin. The most accepted method for humane euthanasia involves first cooling the toad in a refrigerator for a few hours. This step sedates the animal before it is transferred to a freezer for 24 hours to ensure death. Before removal, confirm the animal is a cane toad and not a protected native species. If an infestation is large or identification remains uncertain, homeowners can report sightings to the FWC or hire a professional wildlife trapper for assistance.