A Massachusetts man was bitten by a coyote a week ago after mistaking the animal for a neighbor's dog, according to news reports.

Ashburnham police officials said the victim was bitten several times and taken to a local hospital for treatment, according to WFXT.

The man had approached the coyote on Oct. 22 around 6:30 p.m., thinking it was his neighbor’s dog.

While the attack is under investigation, police have warned people not to approach wild animals.

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Coyotes live in wooded areas around many urban and suburban areas across the U.S., and can inadvertently run into people in their search for food.

A coyote resting on the snow-covered ground, watching for his next meal.
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