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Cloverdale: discovery of Asian black-spined toad sparks request from authorities for residents to be on look out

Aaron CorlettSouthern Gazette

AN unusual toad with raised black pimple-like warts found in a Cloverdale backyard has sparked a request from authorities for the public to keep an eye out for it.

The animal was confirmed to be an Asian black-spined toad, which is a priority declared pest in Australia.

Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) invasive species manager Richard Watkins said Asian black-spined toads posed a major threat to WA’s environment and biodiversity, particularly native species.

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“Asian black-spined toads are native to Asia and have the potential to establish in Australia,” Mr Watkins said.

“It is important that we determine whether there are more toads in the area and if so, locate them and prevent the species from establishing and potentially spreading.”

Mr Watkins said officers from DPIRD and the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions were collaborating on local surveillance.

“We’re asking for the assistance of people in the Cloverdale area, and anyone who has recently returned or received deliveries from Asia, to look out for and report sightings of unusual toads for identification,” he said.

Asian black-spined toads are closely related to the cane toad and excrete a poisonous substance that may affect pets if ingested.

The toad’s skin secretions may cause itching in the nose and eyes when handled by humans.

They are prolific breeders and compete with native toads and frogs for food and habitat, as well as eating their eggs and tadpoles.

The toads can also carry exotic parasites and diseases.

Report all suspected sightings of Asian black-spined toads via phone hotline 0400 693 807, or use the MyPestGuide Reporter app or MyPestGuide Report Online and choose the ‘ABST survey’ option.

Photos and a description of where and when the animal was sighted are vital.

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