A giant cane toad, measuring over 9 inches in length and weighing roughly 6 pounds, has been captured in the wild in Australia. Dubbed the “monster cane toad”, the giant amphibian was found near the coast in Queensland. A nice area for a hike.

The cane toad, from South America originally, was introduced to Australia in 1935 in an attempt to control sugarcane beetles. That didn’t go so well. The toads quickly spread and have become a major pest, causing damage to native ecosystems and outcompeting native species.

This monster cane toad was captured by a local resident and handed over to wildlife officials. It is not yet clear how the toad grew to such a large size. It was just out there chillin in the warm and wet conditions of the tropical region there chomping on all kinds of insects and things without a soul taking notice until now.

The capture of the toad highlights the ongoing problem of invasive species in Australia and the need for continued efforts to control their populations. Wildlife officials are encouraging residents to report any sightings of cane toads and to take steps to reduce their numbers on their properties. We have to think twice about the introduction of species to new areas and the destructive impact that invasive species can have on native ecosystems.

This giant cane toad was certainly a rare sight. Unfortunately, the animal was euthanized because of the destruction they cause. What a shame. Somebody might have wanted to keep such a rare specimen around as a pet.