New research ‘teaching’ crocodiles not to eat cane toads in Western Australia

New research shows feeding baited cane toads to freshwater crocodiles in Western Australia’s north could prevent major destruction of the species.

With the invasive cane toad having made its way across Australia, scientists from Macquarie University are working with WA’s Banuba Rangers. The study has seen great success using ‘taste aversion practices,’ by conditioning the freshwater crocodiles to stop eating the toxic toads. 

Image: Image: Pexels/ Brian Crisp

Produced By: Ben Lewis

Featured In Story: Dr Georgia Ward-Fear- Australian conservation scientist and reptile ecologist, Macquarie University, Professor Karl Vernes- Professor of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Biology, University of New England, Sarah Mcallister- Project Officer, WA Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attraction , and Lionel Marr- Bunuba Indigenous Ranger

First aired on The Wire, Monday 16 September 2024