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A black bear venturing into campgrounds in the Spray River area has prompted further closures in Banff National Park.

Parks Canada issued an area closure for the Spray River East trail, including campground SP6.

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Officials say the bear has been frequenting the area, attracted by unsecured garbage at campsites.

The closure comes days after a bear charged and attacked a hiker near the northeast corner of Lake Minnewanka on Sunday.

The Minnewanka Lakeshore trail, between the Banff National Park boundary and the Lake Minnewanka patrol cabin, has been shut down for hikers. On top of that, campgrounds LM 20, 22 and 31 have been closed.

Additionally across the park, there are 13 area closures set as designated bear DNA gathering sites that are set to remain in place until July 31.

Meanwhile, the town of Banff is under a coyote warning after an aggressive animal was spotted south of the Bow River.

The latest warning is in effect for the Glen, Spray, Mountain and Kootenay Avenues, as well as Mountain Lane.

Violators of the closure can be charged under the Canada National Parks Act and may face a penalty up to $25,000.

Photo by Parks Canada

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