Florida's Frogs & Toads

True Toads

Cane Toad a.k.a. the "Bufo Toad", the Marine Toad, or the Giant Toad

(Bufo marinus)

INVASIVE

Impacts:

Native wildlife - the toxins produced by the parotoid glands of Cane Toads can harm or kill native predators. Cane Toads also eat frogs, lizards, snakes, small mammals, and anything else that fits into their mouths.

Humans - Cane Toad toxin can irritate your skin and eyes. If your pet tries to bite or eat a Cane Toad, it will become sick and may die -- take it to the vet right away!

Size:

Adult Cane Toads generally range in size from 4 to 6 inches, although the record size is nearly 9.5 inches! Any toad found in Florida larger than 4 inches is almost certainly an invasive Cane Toad.

Description:

Cane Toads are big, warty frogs with large glands on the shoulders that taper back in a somewhat triangular shape. Unlike native Southern Toads, they DO NOT have ridges or "crests" on top of the head. They can range in color from tan to reddish-brown, dark brown, or gray with darker spots on the back.

**In coastal Central/South Florida, it is a good idea to catch and identify ANY toad you see in your yard to be sure that you don't have Cane Toads. Humanely euthanize any Cane Toads you find, and remove any water sources (dripping faucets, water bowls, etc.) that might attract them.

Range:

The invasive Cane Toad was introduced to Florida, and is now found in many areas of coastal Central and South Florida, including the Keys. It is native to Central and South America.