The Nova Scotia government has called in a trained trapper to capture what appears to be an aggressive coyote.
According to a release from the Department of Natural Resources, a 16-year-old girl was walking along a rail line near Breton Education Centre in New Waterford Friday morning when she was struck from behind and knocked to the ground by an animal.
The girl suffered scratches on her face but officials say her injuries are not considered serious.
The animal, believed to be an aggressive coyote, was frightened away by a car that sounded its horn.
The incident was reported to the Department Natural Resources earlier this week.
"This is a serious incident and our department is taking all necessary steps to keep the community safe from aggressive coyotes," said Natural Resources Minister Charlie Parker. "We will continue to investigate and keep residents in the area aware of our activities."
Parker says Natural Resources staff members are working onsite with school officials to help inform students, staff and parents about coyote safety.
He also says there are 13 experienced trappers across the province who are trained to remove aggressive coyotes if necessary.
