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\u2019s shoe. <\/p>\n
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. <\/p>\n
The live frog was uncovered when biosecurity officers inspected the passenger\u2019s declared \u201cdirty footwear\u201d at Cairns Airport.<\/p>\n
The banded bullfrog is a popular exotic pet due to its low-maintenance care, hardy nature, and distinctively round appearance.<\/p>\n
Because the species is incredibly adaptable and reproduces rapidly after heavy rains released frogs present a threat to the Australian environment. <\/p>\n
A Department of Primary Industries spokeswoman praised the border discovery and reminded passengers to double-check their boots before boarding.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe seizure of an exotic frog during airport inspection processes highlights this risk and may have prevented its establishment as an invasive species in Queensland,\u201d the spokeswoman said.<\/p>\n
\u201cAll Queenslanders should be alert to the potential presence of unwanted biosecurity threats in their luggage when travelling internationally.\u201d<\/p>\n