Lost bear cub sparks safety concerns in Transbaikalia village

A bear cub was seen alone near the village of Alek-Zavod in Transbaikalia on 5 June 2023. Locals began feeding the animal, raising concerns about its safety and the risks to humans. Authorities have since stepped in to address the situation. The cub was first noticed eating from a plastic bag by the roadside. Villagers, assuming it had been abandoned, started offering it food. Later investigations revealed the cub had simply crossed the road with its mother and was not in distress.

The Transbaikalia Ministry of Natural Resources responded quickly to the reports. Alexander Buzinov, head of the region’s Protected Areas Directorate, advised residents to drive the cub away from the village. He also urged them to contact the ministry rather than intervene directly.

Russia’s Ministry of Natural Resources has since reminded the public of strict guidelines. Feeding, photographing, or chasing wild animals is strongly discouraged. These actions can lead to dangerous encounters, as bears that grow accustomed to human food may later enter settlements. The incident highlights the importance of following wildlife protection rules. Feeding wild animals can endanger both people and the creatures themselves. Authorities continue to monitor the situation to prevent further risks.