People in Perthshire are being advised to stay out of Loch Earn amid concern about blue-green algae building up on its surface.
Officials working for the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) confirmed the potentially toxic substance has spread across the loch last week and are now advising people tempted to take a dip in it to keep out.
They are also advising dog owners not to let their pets in the water either as blue-green algae can be harmful to animals if ingested.
Perth and Kinross Council has already put up signs around the loch warning people to avoid coming into contact with the water.
SEPA said in a post on social media: “Blue-green algae sightings in Loch Earn have been confirmed by SEPA officers following a site visit today (Thursday, August 5).
“People and pets are advised not to come into contact with the water.
“Blooms can develop during the warmer months and can be quite common at this time of year.”
A spokesperson for PKC said: “We have erected signage at the north end of Loch Earn in line with SEPA’s advice, and we will continue to liaise with them regarding the matter.”
