National Parks and Wildlife Service Ranger Justin Kreis said although the cane toad is a major pest in Australia, it was unusual to find one in Glen Innes

“Cane toads have no natural enemies and their toxin can kill most native animals that normally eat frogs meaning they pose a risk to both native fauna and pets such as cats and dogs.

“They are adapted to warmer climates so the Glen Innes climate is not really suitable.

“It is more than likely that this one has hitched a ride into town as they can easily get into the underbodies of cars and can also stowaway in building or landscaping materials which can cause them to turn up in unexpected places, like Glen Innes.”

Mr Kreis said if you have think you have a found a cane toad, make sure you contact the National Parks and Wildlife Service.

“Cane toads can easily be confused with some native frog species, especially the Eastern Banjo Frog or Pobblebonk which is also active at this time of the year,” he said.

“It is important that if you think you have found a cane toad, not to kill it unless it has been properly identified.

“Contact us so staff can identify it and then humanely dispose of it if necessary.

“The last thing we want is for any native species to be accidentally harmed.”

For more information on cane toads visit www.nationalparks.com.au or visit the National Parks and Wildlife office at 68 Church Street.