In 1978, Japan released just 10 to 15 cane toads on Ishigaki Island; their population likely surpassed 20,000, and native snakes were found dead near the toads

A Japanese island's initiative to curb pests with cane toads resulted in unintended consequences. These invasive toads proliferated, wreaking havoc on local ecosystems. Their toxic secretions wreaked havoc on numerous indigenous predators, including serpents. Surprisingly, a native eagle species demonstrated genetic immunity to the toads' venom. This scenario highlights the potential risks associated with the introduction of non-native species as makeshift solutions to ecological challenges.