Fredericton police are investigating after a dead, skinned animal was found tied to a city lamp post on Friday.

A pedestrian made the grisly discovery just after 7 a.m. in front of businesses on Queen Street in the city's downtown, said Const. Danielle Carmichael.

"No indication at this point, we’re not sure of the nature of what we’re dealing with, nor can we confirm what type of animal we’re dealing with," she said.

It appears to be either a dog or a coyote, said Carmichael.

The remains have been turned over to provincial veterinarians for identification, she said.

"So we’ll await the results from those experts."