The mother of an abandoned newborn found covered in a blanket inside a box in southeast Calgary has been located.

Calgary police say the woman is receiving support and the matter is not considered criminal.

The baby girl, who police say could be up to a few days old, was taken to hospital and is healthy. She is being cared for by protective services, according to police.

Colin Grant lives in the neighbourhood and says the mother likely couldn't see "the light at the end of the tunnel."

"She just thought she was at the end of a rope probably … got desperate did the only thing that she knows. Probably feeling a great deal of pain. I feel sorry for her"

On Thursday evening, a woman out for a walk with her dog found the infant in the area of Ogmoor Crescent and 76th Avenue S.E.

She brought the baby home and called police.

"We understand that this is a concerning incident and ask that anyone who finds themselves in a situation where they cannot care for a child, call 211 to be connected to community and social supports," said Staff Sgt. John Guigon with the child abuse unit.

"The safety of all children in our community is paramount and we are here to support families in their times of need."

Because the case is not being investigated as criminal, police say no further details will be released to the public.