Katmai National Park Showcases the Adorably Rotund in Annual Fat Bear Week
The esteemed Fat Bear Week returns to Alaska’s Katmai National Park, where the spotlight shines on the beloved brown bears as they prepare to bulk up for winter hibernation. This year’s tournament is especially poignant, with the community mourning the loss of Bear 402, who faced a tragic fate at the hands of Bear 469. However, the show must go on as we dive into the excitement of cozy, chubby contenders for the title of the “fattest bear.”
Discover the Adorable Competitors
This year’s event features 15 participants, each uniquely plump in their own right. At the forefront is Chunk, known as Bear 32, who towers as the reigning heavyweight at approximately 1,200 pounds. He is set to compete against the winner of a preliminary matchup between Bears 856 and 504, neither of whom has secured a whimsical name just yet. They’ll need to step up their game against the most formidable contestants.
Meet the Heavyweights
Among the contenders is Bear 128, affectionately dubbed “Grazer.” This formidable mother has fiercely protected her cubs against the dominant Chunk. Competition also comes from Bear 151, known as “Walker,” who has earned a reputation for ousting rivals from their prime fishing locations. Additionally, Bear 856, the previous year’s champion, is eager to reclaim their title and has a personal vendetta against Chunk.
Adorable Futures in Fat Bear Week Junior
In conjunction with the main event, teens and future heavyweight champions also make their appearance in Fat Bear Week Junior. Cute competitors include the cubs of 806, a 2.5-year-old from Bear 910, and even a few beloved surrogate bears from the 128 bloodline, each vying for a slice of the glory and adorable recognition.
Join the Fun and Vote
Berry fans can participate in this delightful competition by casting their votes for their favorite fat bear in the daily matchups. Today features face-offs between 909 Jr. and 519 as well as between 903 and 909. The National Park Service encourages votes for bears that embody “fatness and success in brown bears.”
Voters can explore statistics and history on the contenders to make informed choices by visiting the official Fat Bear Week page.
