Wild boars are increasingly appearing near residential buildings, summer cottages and roads in Russia's capital Moscow and the surrounding region as their mating season begins.

The mating season peaks in November and December. During this period, male boars searching for females become more agitated, less fearful of humans and potentially more aggressive, according to Gazeta.ru.

The animals are also actively searching for food ahead of winter, including near summer homes and rubbish collection sites.

Meanwhile, expanding construction and road networks are cutting across their traditional routes.

Encounters with wild boars can be dangerous. The animals can reach speeds of up to 40 kilometers per hour and inflict serious injuries with their tusks.

Residents are advised not to approach the animals to take photographs or attempt to chase them away. Particular caution is necessary when encountering a female with piglets, as she may react aggressively to perceived threats.

Motorists are being urged to exercise extra caution near forests and green spaces, where wild boars may cross roads unexpectedly.

If a boar appears on the road, drivers should slow down and allow the entire group to pass, as other animals may follow the first one.

Drivers should also avoid honking at close range, making sudden attempts to swerve around the animals or leaving their vehicles to take photographs.

The warnings come as seasonal changes and the search for food bring wild animals into closer contact with populated areas.