I'm A Celebrity chaos as deadly cane toads invade camp
Thousands of venomous cane toads have invaded the area where the ITV reality show "I'm A Celebrity" is filmed, prompting a large-scale cull to protect wildlife and contestants. Environmental specialists eliminated around 38,000 of these toxic amphibians ahead of the new season.
Health risks for contestants
The brown cane toads produce a milky white toxin from glands behind their eyes when threatened. Contact with this substance can cause nausea, vomiting, and, in severe cases, require hospital treatment.
“The celebrities are always given a strict talk about what wildlife to avoid when they are in the camp, but it is quite easy to brush past one of these toads and get slime on your hands or people might think they are cute frogs and try to stroke them,” said a source.
The poison is lethal to birds, dogs, and cats, raising further concern for safety within the camp.
Environmental impact
Experts warn that Australia is facing a major ecological challenge, with the cane toad population reaching an estimated 200 million. The town of Murwillumbah in New South Wales, where the show premieres on Sunday, November 16, has been particularly overrun by the species.
Notable contestants
- Comedienne Ruby Wax
- Reality star Jack Osbourne
- Model and actress Kelly Brook
All participants have been cautioned about the dangers of contact with unfamiliar jungle wildlife before filming begins.
Author’s summary: A massive cull of toxic cane toads was carried out near the “I'm A Celebrity” camp to protect cast, crew, and native animals from the deadly invaders.