ANCHORAGE, Alaska – 32 Chunk has been declared the victor of Fat Bear Week 2024, triumphing over a record number of competitors in the annual celebration of Alaskan brown bears preparing for winter hibernation. the champion emerged from a field of twelve bears,securing the title after a weeklong bracket-style competition decided by public vote. This year’s event saw the highest participation yet, reflecting a growing global captivation with the bears of Katmai National Park and Preserve.
Fat Bear Week, initiated in 2014 by Katmai National Park rangers, isn’t merely a lighthearted contest; it’s a vital illustration of the bears’ success in building crucial fat reserves needed to survive the long Alaskan winter. The event highlights the health of the Bristol Bay salmon run, the primary food source for these majestic animals, and underscores the importance of preserving their habitat. The outcome of Fat Bear Week provides valuable insight into the ecosystem’s overall wellbeing, impacting both the bears and the human communities that rely on the same resources.
32 Chunk, a notably large male, distinguished himself throughout the competition with dramatic before-and-after transformations showcasing his significant weight gain. Park rangers noted his dominance on the river,successfully claiming prime fishing spots. “no matter who wins Fat Bear Week, each bear was fully committed to the effort. They needed to get fat to find success,” explained naturalist Fitz during a livestream broadcast.
The competition also saw a heartwarming story unfold with 128 grazer, who, despite no longer being the park’s heaviest bear, experienced a “redemption arc” as her cub, 128 Jr., won the “fattest bear cub” competition. Park ranger monaco described the pair as the “royal family” of Katmai.
This year’s event concluded on Tuesday with a livestream celebrating all the participating bears and their dedication to preparing for winter. ”What a joy this week has been, as – just so many very fat bears,” remarked Boak, another park ranger.The Associated Press contributed to this report.
