The annual Fat Bear Week has kicked off in Alaska, shortly after a tragic incident involving one of the contestants. The popular competition, now in its tenth year, allows the public to vote for their favorite brown bear that has been feeding on salmon to bulk up for winter. This year’s event faced a slight delay following the fatal mauling of bear 402 by bear 469, which occurred on Monday in the Brooks River. The shocking event was captured on cameras that were already set up for the live-streamed contest, watched by viewers around the globe.
Participants this year include twelve bears vying for the title at Katmai National Park. The park issued a statement acknowledging the somber reality of wildlife, saying, “National parks like Katmai protect not only the wonders of nature but also the harsh realities. Each bear seen on the webcams is competing with others to survive.”
Each year, brown bears in the national park consume numerous salmon daily as they prepare for winter hibernation. Fans can vote online for their favorite from a selected bracket of bears. This year’s contestants include Grazer, the reigning champion, who is currently nurturing her first cub, and last year’s runner-up, Chunk, who has yet to claim the crown.