Toronto police warn public after coyote spotted in downtown

Toronto police are warning people to be cautious after a large coyote was seen roaming in a neighbourhood just east of downtown.

The wild animal was spotted in Cabbagetown, near Carlton Street and Sackville Street, just after 9 p.m. Sunday.

Police were called to the scene and some officers were able to locate the coyote, but it ran off into a ravine near the Don Valley and remains on the loose.

Police are reminding residents not to leave any small children or pets unsupervised and to take other precautions — such as keeping garbage secure and not feeding pets outside.

Anyone who spots the animal is asked to call police.

Animal services officials say coyotes are a normal part of the city but have been more active than usual due to the mild winter this year.