Now wild bears are encroaching Siberia's biggest city: locals told 'no selfies'

A growing trend is bears daring to come closer to people because of a shortage of their normal food in forests, a possible consequence of climate change. Rarely do they approach the major cities. 

But a Novosibirsk resident spotted a female bear in the suburb of Nizhnaya Eltsovka on 13 June. She called the police but by the time they came it was gone, although its traces were visible. 

Local emergencies official Yuri Peryazev said: 'The bear was of medium size. That is, an adult animal. The game wardens found its traces. The animal headed towards Koltsovo scientific town. The search continues.'

Locals were urged to be careful while walking in surrounding forests, or even better to delay such walks.

The Civil Defence and Emergencies Department warned: 'If suddenly you see a wild animal, immediately call the police. Do not try to lure it, take a picture or chase it. The animal may attack.'

Perverzev added: 'No selfies with the bear. In no case should you scream. Do not make noise.  Do not throw the stones in its direction. It is not to provoke the animal.'

Bears are rare in Novosibirsk region, and even more unusual in the city, which has a population of around 1.5 million and is Russia's third largest city. The region is larger in size than Uraguay, Tunisia and Bangladesh. 

If caught, the bear will be tranquillised and released far from the city or possibly sent to Novosibirsk Zoo.