New South Wales Central Coast Council’s Biosecurity Officer, Paul Marynissen was called to collect and identify an unwanted tourist after a local business discovered a cane toad in a shipment from Queensland.
“This was a great pick up by a vigilant employee, who understood the importance of keeping our local wildlife safe,” Mr Marynissen said.
“It’s important for all local businesses, particularly those involved in moving landscaping supplies and fresh foods, to be vigilant when purchasing products from interstate.
“These shipments can contain pests, such as the cane toads or even native species that just don’t belong here.
“Cane toads, in particular, are a major threat to our native animals because they can consume large numbers of native wildlife. They are also poisonous to many native animals and pets and can harm humans with their toxin.”
Businesses that think they may have spotted one of these unwanted guests are encouraged to try to contain it (never handle them without gloves).
Mr Marynissen explained that cane toads can be easily confused with our native frogs, so the public is advised never to kill the intruders but to call a local vet or Council immediately to assist with identification.
