Police are asking area residents to be on alert after a female was injured by a coyote early Friday.

A male and a female were reportedly walking through South Branch Park around 8:30 a.m. when a coyote jumped on the female from behind, knocking her to the ground.

As she struggled, she suffered injuries to her arm and face, fortunately her friend was able to pull the coyote off of her, preventing further injury.

She was treated in hospital and released.

Anyone using the trails in the park on the north bank of the Thames River between Adelaide Street North and Egerton Street are reminded to be cautious.

Police say the area is populated by coyotes and people should avoid travelling through the area alone.

Anyone with information on aggressive animals is asked to call Animal Control or London police at 519-661-5670.