Siberian ‘man eating’ bear attack surge prompts population warning

Russian state media says at least 22 people have died in bear attacks since spring. The government drafted emergency measures last month to address growing bear numbers in some regions.

In Podtesovo, Siberia, hunter Mikhail Kondakov said residents sought help after two women were killed while picking mushrooms. One victim, 67-year-old Zoya Gubanova, died on August 31.

Residents say they fear going outdoors, especially in the evening, and worry about children being alone. Bears have been appearing inside the settlement, which has about 3,500 residents.

Russia’s brown bear population has more than doubled over three decades, reaching 308,000, according to official figures. Milder, shorter winters may be one factor behind the increase.

Local experts say scarce berries after a dry, early spring may have pushed bears farther in search of food. Waste left uncollected and safety rules not followed can also attract them to people.

In Krasnoyarsk, investigators opened a criminal case against the regional environment ministry over alleged failures to manage bear numbers. They linked the alleged negligence to seven deaths in September; national emergency measures are also under development.