Why South Florida Has a Cane Toad Problem
Cane toads — also called bufo toads or giant toads — were introduced to Florida in the 1950s and have since spread across the entire southern half of the state. Unlike native species, they have no natural predators here, which means populations grow unchecked in suburban neighborhoods, especially near water features, swimming pools, and landscaped yards.
They're most active from April through October, though South Florida's warm winters mean they're present year-round. Toad season typically peaks after the first summer rains in May and June when breeding activity surges.
The Danger to Pets Is Real
Cane toads secrete a white, milky toxin from glands behind their eyes. When a dog bites or mouths a toad, this toxin is absorbed rapidly through the gums and can cause seizures, cardiac arrest, and death — sometimes within 15 minutes. Cats are also vulnerable but less likely to engage with toads than dogs.
Symptoms to watch for: excessive drooling, pawing at the mouth, disorientation, bright red gums, seizures. If you see any of these, rinse your pet's mouth sideways with a hose for 10 minutes and go to an emergency vet immediately. Read our full dog safety guide →
What Professional Removal Includes
Professional cane toad removal is not the same as general pest control. Effective providers are licensed nuisance wildlife trappers who understand toad behavior, breeding patterns, and property-specific risk factors. A typical service includes:
- Initial property assessment to identify toad entry points and habitat
- Hand-collection of adults during night-time removal visits
- Egg string removal from water features and pools
- Recommendations for habitat modification (reducing ground cover, lighting, standing water)
- Optional recurring maintenance visits to keep populations controlled
One-time removal can reduce your toad population significantly, but recurring monthly service is the most effective approach — particularly during peak season. See typical pricing →
Request a Free Removal Quote
Tell us your zip code and we'll connect you with a vetted provider in your area — usually within the hour.
Service Areas Across South Florida
We connect homeowners with licensed providers across all major South Florida counties. Select your area for local removal specialists:
Miami, Homestead, Kendall, Doral
Fort Lauderdale, Coral Springs, Pembroke Pines
Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Wellington, Jupiter
Naples, Marco Island, Immokalee
Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Bonita Springs
West Palm, Riviera Beach, Lake Worth
Parkland, Weston, Coconut Creek
Stuart, Port St. Lucie, Vero Beach
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does cane toad removal cost in Florida?
Most providers charge $120–$190 for an initial visit, which includes a property assessment and first collection. Recurring monthly maintenance (the most effective approach) typically runs $100–$170/month depending on property size. Emergency same-day visits can run $300+. See full pricing breakdown →
Are cane toads active year-round in South Florida?
Yes — unlike Central and North Florida, South Florida's mild winters mean cane toads are present all year. Activity peaks from May through October, with the biggest surge after the first summer rains trigger breeding season.
Can I remove cane toads myself?
You can hand-collect toads yourself using thick rubber gloves at night, when they're most active. However, professional removal is significantly more effective because licensed trappers know where toads congregate, can remove egg strings from water features, and can advise on habitat modifications that reduce future populations. Read our DIY guide →
How do I tell a cane toad from a native southern toad?
Cane toads are significantly larger (4–6 inches, up to 9 inches), with a distinctive triangular parotoid gland on each shoulder and no cranial ridges. Native southern toads are smaller (2–3.5 inches) with prominent ridges on top of the head. See our identification guide →
Is cane toad removal legal in Florida?
Yes. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) classifies cane toads as an invasive species, and they may be humanely euthanized by licensed nuisance wildlife trappers. All providers in our network are FWC-registered.
Are You a Toad Removal Provider?
We work with licensed cane toad removal professionals across South Florida to deliver qualified, high-intent leads — homeowners who are actively searching for removal service. You pay only for leads you receive, with transparent call tracking and weekly billing. Learn how our provider program works →