Volunteer Information Humane Practices
This page explains the humane principles followed by Thornlands Toad Busting when individuals choose to manage cane toads.
The information provided here is for general awareness only. Participation in any activity is voluntary and undertaken at each individual’s own discretion and risk. Thornlands Toad Busting does not provide formal training, supervision, veterinary services, medical services, or equipment.
Only cane toads are subject to control. Native frogs are protected wildlife under Queensland law and must not be harmed. If there is any uncertainty in identification, no action is taken.
Who This Information Is Intended For
This page provides guidance for volunteers involved in Thornlands Toad Busting activities. It outlines identification requirements, safety expectations, and humane practices used by the group.
This information is provided for volunteer awareness only. Participation is voluntary and undertaken at your own risk.
Native frogs are protected wildlife. If there is any uncertainty in identification, no action is taken.
Important Notice
Volunteers are responsible for their own safety and must comply with Queensland animal welfare legislation and humane practice standards. Thornlands Toad Busting does not provide veterinary or medical services.
Only cane toads are subject to control. Native frogs must not be harmed under any circumstances.
Correct Identification Is Essential
If Identification Is Uncertain, The Animal Must Be Left Unharmed.
Many native frogs resemble cane toads, particularly Eastern Banjo (“marsh”) frogs. Volunteers must be confident in identification before handling any animal.
Volunteer Safety Requirements
- Gloves or a protective barrier must be used
- Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and broken skin
- Wash hands and equipment thoroughly after activities
- Keep captured animals away from pets and children
Humane Practice Used by Thornlands Toad Busting
The following outlines the general approach commonly used by participants. This information is provided for awareness only and does not constitute instruction or training.
Captured cane toads are handled calmly using gloves or a barrier and placed into heavy-duty garbage bags. Bags are not overfilled or compressed and are double-bagged to prevent escape.
Bags containing captured cane toads are placed in a dedicated refrigerator (not a food refrigerator) for a period sufficient to induce torpor. This follows published RSPCA guidance on the cool-then-freeze method.
Once torpid, the animals are transferred to a dedicated freezer for a sustained period to ensure euthanasia is complete. Dedicated equipment is used — never food-storage equipment.
Remains are disposed of responsibly in accordance with local council guidance. Carcasses are double-bagged before disposal to avoid contact with pets, wildlife, or waterways.
Methods Not Used
- Crushing, striking, or decapitation
- Burning
- Chemical poisoning or sprays
- Suffocation without prior cooling
- Any action causing unnecessary suffering
Why We Do It This Way
Cane toads have a significant negative impact on native wildlife. Where control is undertaken, it must be done responsibly and humanely.
Progressive cooling is used because cane toads are cold-blooded and gradually lose consciousness as their body temperature drops. This approach minimises stress and suffering and avoids violent or uncontrolled practices.
Protecting native frogs is equally important. If there is any doubt about identification, no action is taken.