The toxic cane toad in Australia is evolving into an eco-nightmare capable of covering huge distances

Rebecca Morelle:

Scientists say the species Bufo marinus is developing a leggier, faster-moving form that is now hopping out rapidly across the continent.

The toads were introduced 70 years ago to control pests, but have since wrought havoc on indigenous animals.

They kill snakes, lizards, water birds - even crocodiles and dingos.

When harassed they secrete poison carried in two sacs behind the head which is lethal to a potential predator within minutes of being ingested.

The amphibians, which can weigh up to 2kg, are now found in an area covering over a million sq km.

They were first introduced to Queensland from South America in 1935, in an attempt to wipe out cane beetles, a pest that was destroying sugar crops in north-east Australia at the time.

Since then, the toads have been sweeping through Australia leaving a trail of dead creatures in their wake.

Just goes to show that you don't have to be human to be a troublesome immigrant!

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