Katmai National Park hosts 12th annual Fat Bear Week competition

The 12th annual Fat Bear Week has commenced at Katmai National Park and Preserve in Alaska. The single-elimination, bracket-style tournament features 16 brown bears competing for the title of the fattest animal, a crucial biological indicator of their success in accumulating fat reserves for winter hibernation.

Defending champion Bear 32, known as “Chunk,” returns to the competition after his 2025 victory. Other notable contenders include “Backpack” (Bear 89), “Marshmallow” (Bear 131), and a veteran mother bear (Bear 132) who recently successfully reunited with her three cubs. The competition includes a diverse lineup of ten females and six males.

Public voting began on September 22 via the Explore.org platform, with the winner to be crowned on September 29. The event has grown into a significant online phenomenon, drawing millions of votes from over 100 countries in previous years. Fans can observe the bears via live webcams at Brooks River to witness their salmon-fishing activities and physical transformations.