An unwelcome visitor has hopped into Sunbury, sparking warnings for residents to keep on the lookout.
The Department of Environment and Primary Industries (DEPI) was alerted to the spotting of an exotic toad in the area and is warning residents of its potential threats.
A resident found the exotic toad in her dog’s water bowl in the backyard and reported it to the DEPI, which has confirmed it to be an Asian black-spined toad.
“Asian black-spined toads (Duttaphrynus melanostictus) are an invasive species that pose a major threat to Victoria’s environment and biodiversity, particularly our native species,” said DEPI biosecurity operations manager Mark Watt.
“They are poisonous, prolific breeders that compete with native species for food and habitat and have the potential to cause environmental impacts similar to those of the cane toad.”
Mr Watt said the DEPI was now focused on determining how the animal came to be in Sunbury and whether there were any more in the area. “This is a serious biosecurity matter and we are seeking assistance from residents in the Sunbury area who may have information on the Asian black-spined toad – particularly anyone who has recently returned from countries such as Indonesia, East Timor, China and India or anyone who has received deliveries from those parts of Asia.”
All sightings of the Asian black-spined toad should be reported to DEPI immediately via the Customer Service Centre 136 186 or at highrisk.invasiveanimals@depi.vic.gov.au.
For more information, visit www.depi.vic.gov.au/pestanimals
Yasemin Talat
