The giant neotropical toad also goes by marine toad and cane toad. These are the guys that were introduced to northern Australia to disastrous results (a story for another day). In Costa Rica they are natives and quite common to spot on night walks. I photographed this one at La Selva, not far from the capital of San José. Nikon D800 with Nikkor 200-400mm lens (at 310mm) ISO 800, f/8 at 1/60th of a second, two Nikon SB-900 flash units.
Cane toads were first introduced from Cental and South America into Florida to control agricultural pests in sugar cane in the 1930s and 40s. The toads are known to invade Florida backyards as it multiplies across the southern part of the state. It is a poisonous amphibian that, when provoked, can produce a milky white toxin on its back, a substance that is particularly dangerous to house pets.
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The giant neotropical toad also goes by marine toad and cane toad. These are the guys that were introduced to northern Australia to disastrous results (a story for another day). In Costa Rica they are natives and quite common to spot on night walks. I photographed this one at La Selva, not far from the capital of San José. Nikon D800 with Nikkor 200-400mm lens (at 310mm) ISO 800, f/8 at 1/60th of a second, two Nikon SB-900 flash units.
What does “Neotropical” mean? Do they wear little neo-Hawaiian shirts? Do they only listen to Don Ho’s new music?
Cane toads were first introduced from Cental and South America into Florida to control agricultural pests in sugar cane in the 1930s and 40s. The toads are known to invade Florida backyards as it multiplies across the southern part of the state. It is a poisonous amphibian that, when provoked, can produce a milky white toxin on its back, a substance that is particularly dangerous to house pets.
Interesting how their introduction to FL & Australia met with such disaster, yet Costa Rica is okay – must be due to their natural predators in CR.
So, Mr. Grumpy is real and alive!