Cane toad spotted in Sydney

A cane toad has been seen in the Sydney city of Campbelltown, prompting authorities to be on high alert to stop an invasion of the noxious species.

The toad was found at Gilchrist Reserve, some 770 kilometres south from the lowest known population of cane toads.

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Authorities have known toads to hitch rides south via shipping containers or trucks.

Residents who find another toad are instructed to take a photo and send it to the council, as cane toads are venomous.

"Cane toads can cause devastating impacts to native animals and ecosystems due to their rapid spread, use of limited natural resources and ability to poison animals that try to eat them," Campbelltown City Council said in a statement.

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"Anyone attempting to catch a cane toad should ensure they wear protective clothing such as disposable gloves, long sleeves and eye protection as cane toads can ooze and sometimes squirt poison from behind the head when stressed.

"Cane toads can be mistaken for native and threatened frog species so residents are encouraged not to harm the animal and keep it in a well-ventilated container in a cool location with water."