Cane Toad

Rhinella marina

   The Cane Toad is a large species, with males reaching up to 4 inches, and females reaching or exceeding 6 inches. These terrestrial toads are quite toxic, especially to household pets and native wildlife. Humans have even died from consuming these toads and their tadpoles. Cane Toads are found in varying colors, from tan to olive green, and exhibit a dry, rough, "warty" skin.

-In Nature-

Range

Cane Toads are endemic to the southern United States and South America, but are now highly invasive in Australia.

Life Span

Cane Toads can live up to 15 years in the wild due to being inedible to any possible predators.

Diet 

In their natural habitat, these toads feast on anything they can swallow. The menu includes invertebrates, household pet foods, and even carrion.

-In Captivity-

Life Span

In captivity, Cane Toads have been known to live up to and over 15 years.

Diet

Captive toads may be fed a varying diet of crickets, locusts, mealworms, earthworms, waxworms, calciworms, hornworms, superworms, and pinkie mice.

Housing

A 24x18x12 terrarium can house one adult. The substrate should be about 4 inches deep, and may be made up of coconut fiber, reptile bark, and sphagnum moss. Wood and plants should be placed within the enclosure to provide hiding places. The water dish should a beep enough for soaking.

Feeding

The Cane Toad's main diet should consist of earthworms, roaches, crickets, and waxworms. Prey should be offered daily and calcium dusted once weekly.

Temperature

72 to 80°F

Humidity

Around 60%

Heating & Lighting

A 25 watt basking or fluorescent bulb placed over one side of the enclosure will provide an adequate heat and gradient. UVB should not be used with these toads, or should be used at a low wattage in increments, as it can become harmful in high amounts.

Handling

Cane Toads secrete a highly toxic mucus, and can spray a fine mist of these toxins when threatened. They should only be handled with the use of eye wear and gloves until they are tame.

Compatibility

Adults should be housed individually.