The Amazing Animals

Amphibians: Toads«Back

Giant Marine Toad or Cane Toad
(Bufo marinus)

Central and South America (native range); introduced to Florida, Australia and many Pacific islands and other tropical areas — Giant marine toads, also called cane toads, are the largest of Florida’s frogs and toads. When this “immigrant” to Florida is threatened, it secretes a highly toxic milky substance from the large parotoid glands in the back of its head. This substance may burn eyes, inflame skin, and possibly kill cats and dogs that ingest it. The giant marine toad’s natural distribution is an area extending from the northern portion of South America through Central America to the very southern part of Texas in the United States. Yet, the frogs have been introduced to Australia and some South Pacific islands as well as Florida, making them the most widespread Latin-American amphibian. While the frog’s main diet is insects, it is not fussy and has been known to eat small snakes, frogs, lizards and even mice. These frogs will also eat bees straight out of the hive and dog food right out of the bowl. Bufo marinus can grow to 9 inches in length and more than 2 pounds in weight. They have been known to live for at least 15 years in captivity.

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