Dog walkers have been warned to keep their four-legged friends out of the notorious Vinegar Pond in Moushold Heath.  

Recent warmer weather and lack of rainfall have given the pond a flushed red colour.  

This is caused by an algae bloom and is a natural occurrence which happens when there is a sudden change in weather.  

Norwich Evening News: The algae bloom was first noticed by a walker, Amanda Mayhew, at the beginning of the week The algae bloom was first noticed by a walker, Amanda Mayhew, at the beginning of the week (Image: Amanda Mayhew)

READ MORE: Off the scales! Huge goldfish invade city pond

The water will return to its usual state after heavy rainfall as the bacteria will be dispersed.   

And while the algae is thought to be harmless the wardens of the heath are taking precautionary measures and asking dog owners to keep their pets out of the water.  

Gary Champion, Green Party councillor for Sewell ward and a member of the Mousehold Conservators, said: “The Vinegar Pond is an important watering hole for wildlife on Mousehold Heath and it is understandable that concerns have been raised about the appearance of the water.  

Norwich Evening News: Gary hopes with dogs being discouraged the frog numbers will bounce back this year Gary hopes with dogs being discouraged the frog numbers will bounce back this year (Image: Gary Champion)

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“Rest assured that the wardens keep a close eye on the pond and the red colour appears to be algae.  

“At this time of year, with frogspawn and tadpoles please try to discourage dogs from going into the pond and hopefully the frog numbers will bounce back this year." 

A Norwich City Council spokesman said: “The Vinegar Pond is a really valuable asset to Mousehold Heath, providing a refuge for aquatic flora and fauna and increasing the biodiversity of the area.  

Norwich Evening News: It is hoped that with another rainfall the algae bloom will disperse It is hoped that with another rainfall the algae bloom will disperse (Image: Amanda Mayhew)

“Because of this, we always advise the public to respect the pond and ask that they do not let their dogs go into the water and disturb the wildlife. 

“Tests we have had carried out on the water have shown no evidence of toxicity or danger to humans or animals from this bacteria, but we’d like to stay on the safe side and ask people to keep their dogs away from the water – both to protect the wildlife and to keep them safe."