Meteorologist Matt Devitt warned last Wednesday about the increase in sightings of cane toads in southwest Florida, including a huge specimen measuring one foot long that was captured in Marco Island, in the southwestern part of the state.
These invasive toads pose a serious threat to pets, especially during the rainy season when their numbers peak, and they are more active at night, it was noted on Facebook.
He explained that the cane toad releases a toxin that can be deadly for pets: "If your pet finds and bites a cane toad, the effects will be almost immediate," he warned.
The effects of the toxin can severely harm a dog and, without appropriate treatment, can lead to death in as little as 15 minutes, he emphasized.
Devitt advised pet owners to take swift and specific actions: "If your dog bites one, rinse the toxins from the toad out of its mouth quickly using a hose for ten minutes, being careful not to direct water toward its throat. Clean the gums and tongue with a dish towel to remove any toxins. Take your pet to the veterinarian!"
In addition to the risk posed to pets, the meteorologist highlighted the negative ecological impact of the cane toad, an invasive species that has no place in the local ecosystem.
He advised that if it is necessary to handle these toads, protective latex gloves should be worn at all times. He also emphasized the importance of correctly identifying the cane toad before proceeding with its removal.
This call for caution aims to protect both pets and the environment from the harmful effects of this invasive species.
In June, another invasive species was spotted in Florida. In this instance, a video shared on social media showed an alligator devouring a devil fish, a creature that can cause harm to ecosystems.
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) is a government agency that provides scientific data on terrestrial systems, natural disasters, and natural resources, and has warned that this invasive species is more common in Florida than in any other state in the country.
In the past, this species has been responsible for the deaths of manatees in the state of Florida, according to WBBH.
Recently, a python hunter in Florida captured a specimen measuring 17 feet and one inch—over five meters— in the Everglades near Fort Lauderdale, and the shocking moment of the capture was caught on camera.
Matthew Kogo, a trapper with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), found the snake in the Francis S. Taylor Wildlife Management Area.
Invasive pythons can grow up to eight meters long and wreak havoc on the native wildlife in that ecosystem in southern Florida, even going so far as to eat alligators. They have reduced some mammal populations by as much as 90%, according to FWC. They have no natural predators in the Everglades.
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