Child in hospital after coyote attack in Whitby

The attacked happened in the area of Coronation Road and Rossland Road in Whitby, police say. (Scarlett Liu)

A young boy has been hospitalized after being bitten by a coyote in Whitby on Monday.

In a statement to CTV News, Durham Regional Police spokesperson Const. Nick Gluckstein said the boy is in stable condition following the attack.

According to Gluckstein, the child was bitten in a public field near a wooded treeline in the area of Coronation Road and Rossland Road.

The victim, identified by police as a young male toddler, was taken to a local hospital for treatment and later transferred to a Toronto-area hospital.

Police issue warning

In a post on X on Monday morning, Durham Regional Police urged residents to be “vigilant and proactive” following several reported coyote sightings and incidents in the area.

“Community members, including pedestrians and pet owners, are urged to exercise caution when using public spaces, particularly when accompanied by small children or pets,” the statement said.

“Coyotes are most active during the early morning and evening hours and may become aggressive if they feel threatened.”

Police advised residents to report any coyotes exhibiting aggressive or unusual behaviour to local authorities. They also said anyone facing an immediate threat to public safety should call 911.