Scientists are working on a biological control to stop these aliens, but that solution is probably years away, and we can’t wait.
The front line in this battle is currently the Victoria River in the Northern Territory, about 200 kilometres from the Western Australian border.
The WA Government is working with the NT authorities and the community to trap and kill toads before they reach the border, and to develop new technologies to stop the invaders.
The quarantine checkpoint at the WA/NT border, which operates around the clock, is on alert for cane toads in vehicles entering WA. Quarantine officers pay special attention to those vehicles coming from toad infested areas.
In WA, a special Kimberley surveillance team has been set up in Kununurra to investigate reported cane toad sightings in the east Kimberley and Victoria River region and carry out other management actions.
The Department of Environment and Conservation’s office in Kununurra is also disseminating information material to the local, and tourist communities to raise awareness of the looming cane toad menace.
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Cane toads are notorious for hitchhiking long distances, hidden in camping gear, clothing, caravans, farm produce, and any other spot they can find. When you cross the WA border from toad-affected areas, be sure to check your vehicle for stowaways.
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Report all sightings of cane toads in WA to freecall 1800 084 881 which operates 24 hours a day. Make a note of the date, time and location where you saw the toad and if you can, take a photo of the suspect.
If you find a stowaway in your vehicle, remember to be careful when handling cane toads: toxin is produced in their shoulder glands just behind the ear, and is also present in the skin on the back.
Avoid skin contact with its toxin, and if it gets in your eyes, nose or mouth rinse the area thoroughly with copious amounts of fresh water and seek medical attention urgently. Thoroughly wash hands with soap and water after handling any toads, or use gloves.
Cane toads can squirt toxin from their glands when they feel threatened, so be as gentle as possible. |
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