Fat Bear Week Returns: Fan-Favorite Chunk 32 Makes a Comeback
Fan-favorite Chunk 32 returns for Fat Bear Week as new contenders emerge. Vote for your favorite in this annual wildlife event.
POLICY WIRE — Katmai, Alaska — The much-anticipated Fat Bear Week is set to begin next Tuesday at Katmai National Park in Alaska, where the buzz around the event has returned alongside last year’s champion, Chunk 32.
The 1,200-pound male brown bear was recently spotted on live cameras at Brooks Falls, marking his return to the spotlight. His impressive victory last year, despite sustaining injuries including a broken jaw, has made him a fan favorite among participants and viewers alike.
Despite his resilience, whether Chunk can retain his title remains uncertain. This year’s competition, scheduled for September 22-29, will feature a new generation of bears, with more cubs observed at Brooks Camp than in recent years. The 12th annual event is expected to announce its full list of competitors this Friday.
Over 1.7 million votes were cast last year, a significant increase from the initial turnout when the contest began. While no actual prize is awarded, the winner is recognized for best exemplifying fatness and success among brown bears.
The event coincides with the bears’ preparation for hibernation, which begins in October and November. During summer and early fall, bears consume large quantities of food—such as sockeye salmon—to build up fat reserves. Some may eat as many as 200,000 calories per day during this period.
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Scientists estimate the bears’ weights without disturbing them, as adult females are typically 50% smaller than males. Katmai is home to approximately 2,200 brown bears, along with other wildlife like moose, wolves, and bald eagles.
Fat Bear Week originated in 2014, created by former ranger Mike Fitz after he noticed drastic changes in a bear’s appearance between June and September. The first full event took place in October 2015, and it has grown in popularity since then.
Last year, Chunk defeated a veteran bear named “856” but lost to 128 Grazer, the first mother bear to win the title. The loss was influenced by an incident involving 128 Grazer’s cub, which died after being attacked by Chunk.
Voters can already participate in sample polls on the website, and fans are encouraged to set reminders for next week’s official voting. Join the excitement and see which bear will claim the crown this year.
Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)
