UPDATE: The contenders for Fat Bear Week 2025 have just been announced, and bear enthusiasts worldwide can begin casting their votes for the ultimate champion! This beloved annual event at Katmai National Park in Alaska showcases 12 of the park’s largest brown bears as they prepare for hibernation.
Voting kicks off on Tuesday, September 23, and runs until September 30, with fans encouraged to vote daily from 12 PM to 9 PM ET. Only one bear will earn the prestigious title of fattest bear of the year!
This year, the competition highlights the incredible resilience of these magnificent animals. For over a decade, Fat Bear Week has not only celebrated their size but has also raised awareness about their habitat and survival strategies. As bears pack on as much as 700 pounds in preparation for winter, their journey from lean to robust is captured via live feeds on Explore.org, the multimedia partner of the National Park Service.
“A fat bear is a healthy bear,” said park ranger Sarah Bruce. “They consume a year’s worth of food in just five to six months before hibernation.”
This year’s lineup features some remarkable contenders. Among them is 128 Jr., affectionately known as “Biggie,” a young bear who has shown remarkable strength despite losing her sibling last summer. She faces off against 609, the past champion of Fat Bear Jr. 2022, in the first quadrant.
Also in the mix is 602, nicknamed “Flow-tato,” who has captured hearts with his playful antics and impressive size. He is known for his unique “stomping dance,” showcasing his excitement by the river.
In the second quadrant, 503 and 901 are fierce competitors. The 12-year-old 503 is noted for his playful nature and generosity towards younger bears, while 901, who has had a tough year, is back and larger than ever, ready to compete.
Last year’s runner-up, 32 Chunk, is also in the race despite recovering from a broken jaw. His determination to fish and gain weight despite his injury exemplifies the survival spirit of these bears.
Moving to the third quadrant, we find 26, a mother bear with energetic twins, and 909, who boasts a striking blond coat and is known for her impressive fishing skills. This quadrant is filled with fierce competition as both bears aim for the crown.
In the final quadrant, the oldest bear, 856, known as the “old man of the river,” competes alongside 910, who is humorously described as resembling a cruise ship due to her size.
The excitement of Fat Bear Week is not just about competition; it’s a celebration of the bears’ struggle and survival. As Bruce stated, “Their prize is winning and surviving another winter season, which is the most difficult season for these bears.”
With the first round of voting just days away, bear lovers are urged to tune in and participate in this unique event. The bears of Katmai National Park are ready to show off their impressive sizes, and you won’t want to miss your chance to help crown this year’s champion!
Stay tuned for more updates as the competition heats up and be sure to vote to support your favorite contestant!