This is the dramatic moment a turtle was caught on camera biting a curious bear at a zoo in China.

Footage shows the brown bear holding the turtle and licking its shell when the reptile suddenly snapped at its tongue in Guangzhou, Guangdong.

As the turtle clamped its beak onto the cub's face, the young bear could be heard squealing loudly while frantically pawing at its mouth on January 12.

Its companion was seen attempting to help remove the turtle, but the bear, clearly in pain, retreated into the water. Moments later, the reptile released its grip and plunged into the pond.

Zoo staff said: 'The turtle had been placed in the Bear Mountain landscape as part of our enclosure design.

'We never thought this incident would happen. We will closely monitor the bears and carry out regular health checks.'