Papil Loch in Burra and Huxter Loch in Whalsay are the latest Shetland lochs where toxic blue-green algae has been identified.
Blue-green algae blooms can be present in Shetland lochs, especially in warmer weather, and are known to be toxic to dogs and livestock. Signs will soon be erected in the local areas and the public are asked to exercise caution. Dogs and livestock should be kept away from the water and the public should not bathe in the lochs. Fishermen should also be cautious around the lochs.
Reports have also recently been received of blue-green algal blooms in the Loch of Cliff, Unst; Loch of Brindister; Kirkhouse Water near Bixter; Muckla Water at Eshaness; and in Clickimin Loch, Lerwick.
Members of the public are requested to make reports of sightings by contacting the local Environmental Health Team on 01595 745250 or by email at ehadmin@shetland.gov.uk or via Facebook. Environmental Health will take appropriate practical action and the list of affected lochs will be added to a webpage at: www.shetland.gov.uk/environmental_health/publichealthalerts.asp
Residents can also report any sightings of blue-green algae using an app developed by the UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, available at: www.ceh.ac.uk/algal-blooms/bloomin-algae. Further information on the appearance of blue-green algal blooms can also be found on this site.