In Alaska’s Katmai National Park and Preserve, the annual Fat Bear Week contest is a beloved tradition where nature enthusiasts can vote for their favorite plump bears. This event celebrates the park’s well-fed brown bears and the thriving ecosystem that supports their winter survival and successful cub rearing. According to Ashleigh Monaco, a ranger at Katmai National Park, the bears’ weight gain is vital for their well-being and signifies their success.
Started in 2014, Fat Bear Week highlights the resilience of brown bears that bulk up by feasting on salmon at the Brooks River. The contest has grown in popularity over the years, with over a million votes cast online last year, bringing joy to many during challenging times. This year, voters will select from 12 hefty contenders, including the two-time defending champion Grazer, also known as Bear 128.
Despite occasional confrontations among bears in the wilderness, this year has been peaceful due to abundant salmon and low water levels, offering a plentiful fishing environment for all. Grazer remains a strong competitor this year, showcasing her impressive weight gain. Another notable bear is Chunk, or Bear 32, who has made a remarkable recovery from a summer injury.
Bear 602, nicknamed Floatato for his penchant for napping in the river, is also a fan favorite to watch. The voting process for the contestants occurs in a single-elimination tournament style on the website www.fatbearweek.org, with the winner announced on Sept. 30. Voters can explore the bears’ stories online and view them on explore.org’s livestream cameras before making their selections.
Monaco emphasizes that Fat Bear Week is not just about the bears but also underscores the importance of the entire interconnected ecosystem. The salmon not only nourishes the bears but also supports other wildlife and the environment, emphasizing the need for conservation efforts. Monaco acknowledges the indigenous Sugpia, Dena’ina, and Yupik people as the original land stewards and expresses her commitment to safeguarding these wild places.
Working at the park for the first time, Monaco finds the experience awe-inspiring and reinforces her dedication to conservation. She recognizes the significance of protecting these natural habitats and following the footsteps of the native peoples who have long cherished and preserved the land.