Disposing of cane toads at home

Stepped hypothermia (or fridge/freezer) is current best practice to humanely euthanise cane toads, in line with research conducted by the University of Sydney and as recommended by RSPCA Guidelines. This method can be used for cane toads of every life stage, although cane toad eggs and tadpoles require water to survive.

How to euthanise a cane toad through stepped hypothermia:

1. Put the toad in a container with air holes, ensuring it can breathe but not escape.

2. Place in the fridge for 24 hours to cool the toad. This will put the cane toads in torpor, a natural amphibian state similar to hibernation, which switches off their pain receptors.

3. Transfer cane toads to the freezer for a further 24-48 hours to euthanise them through freezing. 

Studies show that Cane Toads remain toxic for some time after death, as the bufotoxin in their paratoid glands does not break down easily in some environments. This means it’s important to responsibly dispose of euthanised Cane Toads and not leave them in the environment, where they can still pose a threat to wildlife and pets.

Here are a few ways you can safely and responsibly dispose of euthanised Cane Toads:

• Compost: why not put your toads to good use in compost production! In a hot compost system, the toxin will break down quickly in, making Cane Toads similar to other meat scraps. Cane Toad toxin is not dangerous for worms and other insects which reside in your compost system. However, it is important to protect other animals from your decomposing toads.
• Household bin: Cane Toads can be put in your regular curbside bin for council collection. Different councils have different rules around what can be put in the bins, so check with your area whether it can go in your red or green bin. 
• Burial: Cane Toad toxin will also break down when buried. If this is an option for you, bury the toads at least 50cm deep to prevent animals from digging them up.