(KPEL-FM) – Wildlife officials are waning residents throughout Texas, especially Southern Texas, about the toxic can toad and the dangers these toads can pose to both humans and pets.
Cane Toad
Wikipedia Via Bare Foot BillyWhat Are Cane Toads?
Cane toads, sometimes called buffalo toads, are more commonly found during rainy seasons and around bodies of water like lakes and ponds.
The cane toad is actually the largest toad found in North America.
According to tpwmagazine.com adult cane toads average about 4-6 inches in length, but can grow up to 9 inches.
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After being introduced into America by way of Florida in the 1930s, cane toads eventually made their way into South Texas.
They were introduced as a way to help control pests in sugarcane crops but quickly spread throughout Florida and some Southern states, including Texas.
Cane Toad Poison
YouTube Via @thereptilezootvAre Cane Toads Dangerous?
Yes, cane toads are dangerous, especially to pets and native wildlife
Cane frogs produce bufotoxin, a potent toxin secreted from behind their eyes.
In humans, the bufotoxin causes severe irritation to skin and eyes
However, the danger posed pets like cats, dogs, and wildlife is much more serious.
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A cane frog’s bufotoxin can kill dogs, cats, and other predators quickly.
From thecooldown.com –
Animals that eat, bite, or even lick living or dead cane toads can become sick and die in as little as 15 minutes. The toads’ eggs also contain bufotoxin.
Currently, there’s no test available to know for sure if you or your pet has come in contact with a cane frog’s toxin.
Poisonous Cane Frog
YouTube Via @BirdTVNorthCarolinaWhat to Do if You Encounter a Cane Frog
Don’t touch them with bare hands. Use gloves or a shovel if removal is necessary to remove them.
Keep pets away. Train pets to avoid them if they live in cane toad territory.
If a pet is exposed, rinse its mouth with water and seek emergency veterinary care.
So what can you can do to try and keep your yard safe for you and your pets?
From fox13.com –
“Keep your spaces, your backyards very well-lit so that you can see them at night and try to keep everything clear, any long weeds you have in the yard, they like to hide there sometimes.”
Read more at thecooldown.com and tpwmagazine.com.
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