Summary
Toad Day Out is a pest control event which takes place in Queensland, Australia on the 29 March of each year. Its focus is to reduce the population of the invasive cane toad. The toads are caught live and unharmed.[1] The day was originally advocated by politician Shane Knuth.[1]
Toads are captured and taken to be humanely destroyed. Prizes are awarded for children who find the heaviest toads, and schools which capture the most toads (by weight). Before they are destroyed, the toads are inspected, weighed and bagged. They are euthanized via exposure to CO₂ gas, ensuring a quick and painless death.[2] Most end up being turned into fertilizer, some are used for research, and a few have been stuffed by a taxidermist.[1]
The cane toad has been a pest since it was introduced to Australia in 1935 [2] by farmers who hoped the toad would control the spread of the cane beetle.[3]
As of 2018, no national eradication program has been implemented due to a lack of resources and technology.[3]
Toad Day Out has been held since 2009. The event was inspired by an episode of The Simpsons called "Whacking Day".[4]
See also edit
References edit
- ^ a b c (29 March 2009). 'War' on poisonous Australia toad. BBC News.
- ^ a b Penny Timms (25 March 2011). "Residents declare war on cane toads". ABC News Online. Australian Broadcasting Corporation. Retrieved 11 April 2011.
- ^ a b "Clean up toad problem, Queenslanders: Bob Irwin". The Cairns Post. News Limited. 26 March 2011. Retrieved 11 April 2011.
- ^ Kym Agius & Evan Schwarten (27 March 2011). "Thousands killed in "Toad Day Out"". Sydney Morning Herald.
External links edit
- Toad Day Out. Townsville City Council.