4-year-old mauled by coyote, second attack in a week

A 4-year-old boy is recovering after being mauled by a coyote in North Kildonan.

The incident happened Friday, June 30 in the Headmaster Row area.

This is the second attack to happen in the area within a week.

The child was taken to hospital where they were treated and released.

The incident follows a coyote attack involving a 9-year-old boy on June 24, also in the North Kildonan area.

Manitoba Natural Resources and Northern Development says while conservation officers have stepped up patrols and hired a trapper from the Manitoba Trappers Association to assist, the public is advised to take extra precautions, especially with young children.

In a release, Manitoba Natural Resources and Northern Development says unprovoked attacks by coyotes on humans are extremely rare, but can occur.  

While these attacks are rare,  the province says it is important that people be vigilant, supervise children closely, feed pets indoors, keep animals on a leash and reduce attractants. If a coyote is seen, people are encouraged to make noise, do what they can to appear large, stay in a group, and not run as that might incite a chase.