Cane Toads

Overview

The Cane Toad (Rhinella marina), also known as the Marine Toad or Giant Toad, is a large and hardy amphibian that has become a popular pet in the exotic pet trade. Native to Central and South America, this species is known for its robust size, unique appearance, and its adaptability to a variety of environments. Despite their somewhat controversial reputation due to their invasive status in parts of the world, Cane Toads can make fascinating pets for experienced amphibian keepers. They are relatively easy to care for and have distinctive behaviors, making them a rewarding species to observe.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Adult Cane Toads are quite large, reaching up to 6-9 inches (15-23 cm) in length, with some individuals growing even larger. Males tend to be smaller than females.
• Lifespan: Cane Toads can live up to 15-20 years in captivity, provided they are given proper care and a suitable environment.
• Appearance: Cane Toads are typically brown or grayish with a rough, warty skin texture that gives them a somewhat bumpy appearance. They often have lighter-colored bellies and darker markings on their back and limbs. Their eyes are prominent, and they possess large, parotoid glands behind their eyes that secrete toxins when the toad is threatened, which is a defense mechanism against predators.
• Distinctive Features: Their rough, warty skin and large size make them easily recognizable. The parotoid glands, which secrete a toxic substance, are a notable feature of this species, and these toxins can be harmful if ingested by other animals or humans.

Housing

• Enclosure: A single adult Cane Toad should be housed in at least a 20-gallon tank, though a larger enclosure (30 gallons or more) is preferable for more than one toad. The enclosure should have a secure lid, as Cane Toads are known to escape when given the chance. While they are not known for climbing, they can jump and squeeze through small gaps, so the lid must be tightly secured.
• Substrate: Use a moisture-retaining substrate like coconut fiber, cypress mulch, or a mix of peat moss and soil. The substrate should be deep enough (at least 2-3 inches) to allow the toad to burrow and hide. It’s important to keep the substrate damp, as Cane Toads need a humid environment to stay healthy.
• Water Source: A shallow water dish should always be provided for drinking and soaking. The water should be dechlorinated and kept clean. Cane Toads often spend a lot of time in water, so it’s essential to maintain proper hygiene to prevent bacterial growth in the water dish.
• Hiding Spots: Cane Toads are nocturnal, so they appreciate having hiding spots in their enclosure to retreat to during the day. Use hollow logs, ceramic hides, or leafy plants to create secure hiding places for your toad.

Temperature and Humidity

• Temperature: Cane Toads prefer temperatures between 75-85°F (24-29°C) during the day. At night, temperatures can drop slightly, but should remain no lower than 65°F (18°C). These toads are quite hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures, but sudden temperature fluctuations should be avoided.
• Humidity: Cane Toads thrive in high humidity levels, ideally between 60-80%. To maintain this, mist the enclosure regularly and provide a damp substrate. The humidity helps the toad stay hydrated and assists in their shedding process.
• Lighting: Cane Toads are nocturnal and do not require bright lighting. They are best kept in a natural light cycle of 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness. Low-wattage incandescent or LED lights can be used to provide some light during the day, but it’s essential to avoid excessive lighting or UVB exposure, which they don’t need.

Feeding

• Diet: Cane Toads are carnivorous and will readily eat a variety of live insects, including crickets, mealworms, waxworms, roaches, and earthworms. They are opportunistic feeders and will eat almost anything that moves and fits in their mouths.
• Feeding Frequency: Juveniles should be fed daily, while adults can be fed every other day. Offer a variety of food to ensure a balanced diet. Cane Toads are typically fed a diet of live prey, but it’s important to also provide proper supplements.
• Feeding Method: Cane Toads rely on their sight to catch prey, so you can place food in their enclosure and watch as they hunt. The toad’s strong tongue will quickly capture prey. You can also offer food in a shallow dish to make feeding easier, though they will generally prefer to catch their food on their own.
• Supplements: Dust the food items with a calcium and vitamin D3 supplement to promote healthy bone growth and to prevent metabolic bone disease. Since Cane Toads don’t need UVB light exposure, supplementation is critical.

Handling and Temperament

• Handling: While Cane Toads are not aggressive and can tolerate occasional handling, it’s important to avoid handling them too much. Their skin is sensitive, and oils, dirt, and chemicals from human hands can harm them. If handling is necessary, always wash your hands thoroughly before and after touching the toad. It’s best to handle them minimally to avoid stress and preserve the health of their skin.
• Temperament: Cane Toads are generally calm and docile but can become active and curious during feeding times or at night. They are nocturnal creatures, and you may see them moving around more in the evening. While they are not social animals, multiple Cane Toads can be housed together as long as the enclosure is large enough, although it’s advisable to monitor them for any signs of aggression or competition for food.

Health and Veterinary Care

• Common Issues: Cane Toads are fairly hardy, but they can experience health issues if their environmental needs aren’t met. Some common issues include skin infections, dehydration, and respiratory problems. Their skin should remain moist, and they should never be exposed to dry conditions.
• Molting: Cane Toads shed their skin regularly. In captivity, they may not eat their shed skin like other amphibians do, so it’s important to keep the enclosure clean and remove any shed skin to prevent the buildup of waste and bacteria.
• Veterinary Care: Cane Toads generally don’t require regular veterinary care unless there is a specific issue. However, if you notice signs of illness, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, abnormal behavior, or skin lesions, it’s important to seek the care of a veterinarian experienced with amphibians.

Conclusion

The Cane Toad (Rhinella marina) is an impressive and low-maintenance amphibian that can make an interesting pet for the right owner. Their large size, unique appearance, and relatively simple care requirements make them appealing for amphibian enthusiasts. With proper care, they can live long, healthy lives in captivity. Though they require a suitable humid environment and a diet of live insects, Cane Toads are relatively easy to care for compared to other exotic pets. Whether you're an experienced amphibian keeper or just starting out, the Cane Toad can be a fascinating and rewarding pet.