Advertisement

To Fight Croc-Killing Toads, Australians Turn to "Cane Toad Golf"

Discover cane toad golf, a unique way to address invasive toads harming crocodile populations in Victoria River.

Newsletter

Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news

Sign Up

Remember the doomed, cane-toad-eating crocodiles? Well they're still eating, and dying: A new report suggests that as much as 77 percent of the crocodile population along the Victoria River has now perished from toad poisoning. In yet another example of the "solution to one problem becomes an even bigger problem" doctrine, cane toads were purposely introduced to the region as a pest-control measure for beetles in the sugar cane fields. But sure enough, the toads soon became pests themselves, to the point where volunteer groups are trying to stop the toads' spread across the continent. One community has been promoting "cane toad golf"—basically whacking the toads with golf clubs. A more humane way, experts suggest, is to put the toads in the fridge until they're numb and then transfer them to the freezer to kill them. The toads are especially afraid of the cold and pretty much stop moving below 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Though, of course, would you really want one of these warty things in your fridge? Related Content: Disco: Crocs Chow Down on Invasive Toads, Instantly Regret It 80beats: What Can Stop the Cane Toad's Onslaught in Australia? A Cold Snap

Image: flickr / Michael Henderson

Stay Curious

JoinOur List

Sign up for our weekly science updates

View our Privacy Policy

SubscribeTo The Magazine

Save up to 40% off the cover price when you subscribe to Discover magazine.

Subscribe
Advertisement

1 Free Article