Get involved in a citizen science survey for cane toads
Have you spotted a cane toad in NSW recently? This is your chance to join fellow citizen scientists and report them into ToadScan.
The FeralScan team are working together with the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) and Local Land Services (LLS) to update the NSW map of cane toad populations to guide future management efforts. Report any cane toad sightings onto the ToadScan Map (
Instructions)
Why your help is needed
Communities across northern NSW have been working tirelessly for many years to prevent the spread of cane toads. However, in some areas, cane toads are still spreading beyond containment lines. Whilst some cane toads simply hop their way into new areas without immediate detection, others stow-a-way on vehicles and freight, occasionally resulting in their long-distance dispersal. That's why it is important for you to keep your eyes open, and report all sightings.
Conduct a short Cane Toad Survey in March
During the week of March 1-9, set aside approximately 15 minutes and conduct a small survey (either during the day or at night-time with a torch) of your garden, property, workplace or a local park. You might see adult cane toads, juveniles, very young toads (called meta-morphs), or even cane toad tadpoles.
You should record whatever you find. If you don't find any cane toads, you should also report that, because knowing where they have not be found is also useful information. Then, record your survey results on the ToadScan Map. For those with extra enthusiasm, consider looking for cane toads over 3 consecutive nights to increase your chances of finding them.
If you don't have time for a dedicated citizen science survey, simply report any sighting of cane toads (day or night) onto the ToadScan Map. All reports help to create a detailed picture of cane toad populations.
How to identify a cane toad
Correct identification of cane toads is important as they can look similar to some native frogs at different stages of their development. The Landcare Cane Toad Handbook provides excellent guidance on identifying cane toads at all life stages or check out our ToadScan Guide to Identification for some tips. If you are unsure of the species, please do not touch or harm the animal until identification can be confirmed. Uploading clear photographs with your record will help our team identify the animal.
Survey tips
Safety first!
Conduct your survey with a family member or friend, and always tell someone where you plan to go. Use a torch for better visibility, and always wear high-visibility reflective clothing or vests. Remember, always to use gloves if handling cane toads and wash your hands thoroughly afterwards.
Survey and collection equipment
Equipment for cane toad collection (where possible):
- Bait, scoop or dip net (fine mesh for eggs and tadpoles)
- Buckets or containers with lids, or hessian bag that can be tied securely (must be kept damp)
- Long BBQ tongs or rubbish grabber
- Strong waterproof gloves
- Long sleeved shirt and long pants
- Smart phone with GPS. For advice on collection and euthanasia of confirmed cane toads, check out the NSW Landcare Cane Toad Handbook
Where and when to survey
For best results, conduct your survey after 7:30pm.
Typical cane toad habitat includes:
- Areas around buildings where sprinklers, leaking taps and air-conditioner units provide water.
- Areas lit at night, such as under security lights or floodlights.
- Water bodies of all sizes, especially those with gently sloping banks
- Open corridors that make movement and dispersal easier – cane toads prefer to use roads, footpaths, bicycle paths, wallaby or cattle tracks, fire trails and fence boundaries.
- Any open or disturbed habitats – such as riverbanks, cleared land, woodland, parks, sports fields, paddocks and golf courses.
- Grazing properties – cane toads can be located on dung piles where they feed at night on dung beetles.
- Around water and food bowls that are kept outdoors for pets.
Contact us for assistance
If you have any questions or need support, please don't hesitate to contact the FeralScan team.
For more information
For detailed information on the identification and management of cane toads please visit the following web pages:
Record Cane Toad Activity