The much-anticipated Fat Bear Week is upon us again, as the annual tradition, now in its 11th year, kicks off in Alaska’s Katmai National Park. This unique event, which began in 2014, captures the hearts and votes of millions worldwide as it pits the park’s brown bears against each other in a playful competition of fattest proportions. Modeled after a March Madness-style bracket, Fat Bear Week encourages people to vote for their favorite brown bear contestants based on their impressive pre-hibernation weight gain.
The event is more than just a lighthearted contest—it serves as a platform to educate the public about brown bears and their ecosystems. Katmai Park Superintendent Mark Sturm emphasizes that Fat Bear Week is an opportunity for people globally to actively engage in learning about these bears while supporting their favorite contestants.
This year’s competition features a roster of 11 bears, including prominent figures such as 32 Chunk, potentially tipping the scales at over 1,200 pounds, and 609, the 2022 Fat Bear Junior champion. 480 Otis, a legend in his own right with four previous titles, and 128 Grazer, who made history as the first female and first mother bear to win consecutively, are also notable contenders.
Throughout the summer months, the bears indulge in the abundant supply of salmon in the Brooks River, preparing for winter hibernation by gaining massive amounts of weight. Adult male bears in the area typically weigh between 700 and 900 pounds but can reach up to 1,200 pounds, while females are generally one-third to half the size of males. The selection of winners is determined by public votes, which are cast based on which bear the audience believes exhibits the best combination of fatness and success as a brown bear.
In addition to voting online, enthusiasts can enjoy live footage and photos of the bears as they prepare for hibernation, bringing the spectacle closer to fans across the globe. As the competition finale approaches on September 30, a new champion will be crowned, celebrating another year of the incredible resilience and adaptability of these majestic creatures.
Fat Bear Week is not just a competition; it’s a celebration of nature and an educational journey for all involved. As we await the conclusion of this year’s competition, the global community reflects on the significance of these bears and their vital role in the ecosystem.