New pest species continue to establish in the environment through importation of new species into Australia or the escape of domestic animals. Prevention and early detection followed by eradication is the most cost-effective way to minimise the impacts of new pests.
Cane toads are a serious threat to the unique wildlife in NSW, as they invade the habitats of native frogs and poison native animals and pets that try to eat them.
The NSW Government has information on how to tell the difference between a native frog and a cane toad, and what to do if you come across one.
The red-eared slider turtle is listed globally as one of the world’s worst invaders and it poses a serious threat to aquatic biodiversity around Australia and within the Lake Macquarie region.
It is illegal to keep or sell red-eared slider turtles in NSW without an authority and heavy fines or imprisonment can apply. The red-eared slider turtle is quite distinctive due to the red or orange stripes behind their eyes and narrow yellow markings over the rest of their bodies.
If you think you have spotted a red-eared slider turtle please complete this online form. Alternatively, you can contact DPI NSW hotline on 1800 680 244 or by email at [email protected]