Cane Toad Management in the Shire of Derby West Kimberley
Welcome to the Shire of Derby/West Kimberley's Cane Toad Management page. Here, we'll provide you with essential information about cane toads, their impact on our environment, and how you can contribute to managing this invasive species in our region.
Report a Cane Toad
Have you spotted a cane toad in your area? Help us track their presence by reporting any sightings through our online "Report a Cane Toad" form. Your contribution will aid our ongoing efforts to monitor and manage the cane toad population in Derby/West Kimberley.
Thank you for your commitment to preserving our local environment and protecting our native wildlife from the threat of cane toads. Together, we can make a difference in managing this invasive species and ensuring the long-term health of our ecosystem. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to contact the Shire of Derby West Kimberley on 08 91910999 or sdwk@sdwk.wa.gov.au
Understanding Cane Toads
Cane toads (Rhinella marina), also known as marine toads, are not native to Australia. They were introduced to Queensland in the 1930s to control sugar cane pests, but unfortunately, they have become a significant environmental issue. These toads are highly adaptable and prolific breeders, making them a challenging invasive species to manage.
Further information on how to identify a cane toad can be found here.
Impact on the Environment
Cane toads have had a detrimental impact on our local ecosystem. They pose a threat to native wildlife, particularly when consumed, as their skin secretes toxic substances. These toxins can be fatal to many of our native species, including quokkas, reptiles, and some bird species. Cane toads can also outcompete native frogs for food and breeding habitats.
Shire's Cane Toad Traps
The Shire of Derby/West Kimberley offers a solution for residents and businesses to help manage the cane toad population. We have a number of cane toad traps available for hire. These traps are specifically designed to safely capture cane toads while minimising harm to other wildlife. Using these traps is an effective way to reduce the cane toad population in our community.
Suitable Disposal of Cane Toads
Proper disposal of captured cane toads is crucial to prevent further harm to our environment. To ensure you handle cane toads safely, please refer to our Cane Toad Capture and Disposal Factsheet. This comprehensive guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to capture, handle, and dispose of cane toads responsibly.