THREE cane toads caught in Lake Macquarie already this year are thought to have travelled to the area in sugar cane mulch intended for use in local gardens.
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Hunter Local Land Services is asking local residents to keep an eye out for more of the amphibians.
Hunter Local Land Services acting general manager Andrew Hodgson urged Lake Macquarie residents to be vigilant.
"Cane toads are not endemic in our region, they are an invasive pest and could have devastating impacts on our local environment if they became established here," Mr Hodgson said.
"We have heard of toads travelling on vehicles before, but it appears this toad hitched a ride in a load of mulch, that was destined for local gardens.
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"We are reaching out to local nurseries to monitor mulch deliveries, just in case any cane toads are present, but are asking residents who are out in their gardens over the weekend or using mulch to also be mindful."
Hunter Local Land Services biosecurity officers are working with the Department of Primary Industries and Lake Macquarie Council to investigate any sightings.
It is important residents report sightings of any possible cane toads immediately, Mr Hodgson said.
"Please, if you find a suspected cane toad, don't kill it as cane toads can be confused with some native frogs," he said.
"Cane toads can hurt humans and kill domestic pets such as dogs and cats, and are also poisonous to many native species."
If you find a cane toad wear protective gloves and eyewear, and keep the toad in a ventilated container with some water.
Photograph and report it to NSW DPI using the online reporting form dpi.nsw.gov.au/biosecurity/sighting or email invasive.species@dpi.nsw.gov.au.
