This is the terrifying moment a lynx attempting to cross a motorway was nearly hit by a car as it darted back into a forest.

CCTV footage shows the curious wildcat running across the Sortavala highway in Leningrad Oblast, Russia.

Upon reaching the middle road barricade, it sat still and leaned against the barrier on July 16.

Realising it could not leap over, the feline sprinted back into the woodland.

The passing grey hatchback immediately engaged its brakes when the wild creature dashed in front, just in time to avoid a collision.

The car behind quickly halted, preventing a rear-end crash.

Officials from the Federal Road Administration 'North-West' urged motorists to remain alert and obey speed limits, especially on roads passing through wooded areas and near signs warning of wild animals.

They confirmed the lynx was one of several wild creatures spotted in the area that day.