NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development

Get the jump on missing cane toad in Thurgoona

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18 Mar 2026

The NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is calling on Thurgoona residents to join the hunt for a missing cane toad.

The invasive pest was recently captured and reported to FeralScan but was subsequently released. It was last seen on the Albury Airport site but remains at large.

Cane toads pose a threat to pets and native animals as they produce a toxin that can poison dogs, cats and wildlife. Even a single adult toad can pose a risk, which is why safe containment and reporting of toads is so important.

Cane toads have warty skin, a bony ridge on their head, large glands on each shoulder and can be grey, yellowish, olive-brown or reddish-brown in colour. They sit upright and move in short rapid hops.

Cane toads are well‑known in Queensland and north‑eastern NSW, but they are also notorious for stowing away on vehicles, in nursery stock, building materials and other goods, meaning they can turn up far outside their usual range. Other cane toads have recently been captured at Bucca near Coffs Harbour, Newcastle and Copeton Dam in the state’s North West.

Anyone with information about any cane toad can report it on ToadScan  (feralscan.org.au/toadscan) or let NSW DPIRD know by using the online form.

If you suspect you have found a cane toad:

  • Contain it by placing a bucket or container over it to stop it moving away.
  • If it is safe to do so, and you are comfortable handling it, use gloves (cane toads release toxins) and place the animal in a container with a lid and air holes.
  • Take a clear photo and upload it to FeralScan (ToadScan) by searching online for “FeralScan cane toad”.
  • Do not harm the animal until it has been identified. Native frogs are often mistaken for cane toads.

When travelling into cane toad areas and returning home, please check vehicles, trailers and gear for stowaway toads, as they are frequently transported unintentionally.

It is hoped the invasive pest can be found and captured in Thurgoona, to help  stop the spread of cane toads further into NSW.

For more information on cane toads and what to do if you find one, visit: Cane toad | Department of Primary Industries About cane toads and their control | Department of Primary Industries

NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development media: pi.media@dpird.nsw.gov.au

www.dpi.nsw.gov.au