A 9-year-old boy is recovering after being mauled by a coyote Saturday evening near the outskirts of the River East area.

Just before 7 p.m. on Saturday, Winnipeg Police responded to the area of Sunny Morning Road regarding an animal call for service.

Police say a 15-year-old girl and her 9-year-old brother were walking in the Popko Crescent and Knowles Avenue area when they noticed a coyote running towards them.

They attempted to get away, but the coyote caught up and mauled the boy.

An area resident chased the coyote away.

An ambulance was called, and the boy was transported to hospital in stable condition.

The Winnipeg Police Service continues to work with Conservation Officer Service regarding the incident.

The Winnipeg Police Service is reminding Winnipeggers, if a coyote approaches you, become large and loud to deter it. This is called hazing.

Examples of hazing include raising a jacket or another piece of clothing above your head to appear larger and shouting. A safety whistle is another option for creating noise