Cane Toad

Rhinella marina

Size: 9-17 cm
Lifespan: 15-20 years.
Food: Insects, crustaceans, molluscs.

Deadly poison

The cane toad is very poisonous. Therefore it has no natural enemies. If a saltwater crocodile that weighs 1,300 kilos eats a cane toad, the crocodile can die.

When it feels threatened, the cane toad secretes poison through glands on its back. The poison includes a chemical called bufotenin, which gives hallucinations. 

Photo: Brian-Gratwicke-CC-BY

Classed as a narcotic

Bufotenin is classed as a narcotic in Australia. Some people have licked a cane toad to try to get a psychedelic buzz. 

Distribution worldwide

Originally from
Central and South
America but now also
in Australia. 

White marking = Distribution

Threat based on the Red List

Trade regulations

CITES: Not listed.