Birds that Vladimir Putin tried to save have 'almost disappeared' due to illegal shooting.
Hero crane operator died preventing heavy load falling on cars and pedestrians, while floating restaurant with 120 on board cut loose its moorings in Ob River.
Four killed in nightmare accident in Omsk.
Crane driver hits high voltage cable and dies on the spot.
The Russian president took part in the 'Flight of Hope', giving a flying lesson to young white cranes ahead of their epic 5,000 km migration.
One-year-old bird has become a minor celebrity and attracts hundreds of visitors a week and even has its own Facebook page.