At this rate, the species could be extinct in 6 years, according to latest shocking figures - but are the predators really in such jeopardy?
A Russian photographer captures unique moments of bear cubs being taught to fish ahead of long winter.
Shocking remains of nine beheaded brown bears slain and mutilated by poachers have been found by mushroom pickers in the Republic of Buryatia.
Ivan and Lubov Leshchenko keep the animals in the backyard of their village of Dubovy Kliuch - Oak key - in the Far East of Russia.
Lubov means Love in English and this remarkable babushka has done everything for her unusual 'grandchildren'.
Misha and Masha transported from one side of Russia to the other to their new home.
Famous for a friendship between a tiger and a goat, is this video evidence of a new cross-species bond?
'Influential businessman' Evgeniy Romanov, 52, avoids jail, despite a host of other 'trophies'.