A toadly adventurous banded-bullfrog has given biosecurity officers at Cairns Airport a surprise after sneaking all the way from Thailand by cozying up inside a passenger’s shoe.
The globetrotting amphibian, also know as a chubby frog or digging frog, managed to survive a layover flight through Singapore nestled inside a pair of shoes that had been tossed into a suitcase without the passenger checking for the presence of stowaways.
The live frog was uncovered when biosecurity officers inspected the passenger’s declared “dirty footwear” at Cairns Airport.
The banded bullfrog is a popular exotic pet due to its low-maintenance care, hardy nature, and distinctively round appearance.
Because the species is incredibly adaptable and reproduces rapidly after heavy rains released frogs present a threat to the Australian environment.
A Department of Primary Industries spokeswoman praised the border discovery and reminded passengers to double-check their boots before boarding.
“The seizure of an exotic frog during airport inspection processes highlights this risk and may have prevented its establishment as an invasive species in Queensland,” the spokeswoman said.
“All Queenslanders should be alert to the potential presence of unwanted biosecurity threats in their luggage when travelling internationally.”