Voting Starts for Alaska’s Fat Bear Week Following Tragic Attack on Contestant

Voting in Katmai National Park’s Fat Bear Week was delayed by a day after Bear #469 attacked and killed Bear #402 on Monday. The attack, captured on live webcams in the park, highlighted the harsh realities of nature and the competition among bears to survive. Fat Bear Week puts 12 bears to the test before they hibernate for the winter, with one bear being crowned the fattest after a week of voting. Bears must bulk up on salmon and snacks to survive hibernation, with some bears increasing their weight by over 50% before entering their dens. This year’s contest features eight bears in the first round, with matchups such as Bear #909 Jr. against last year’s champion, Bear #128. Other notable competitors include Bear #747, a two-time winner, and Bear #164, who has grown significantly in recent years. The competition aims to celebrate the success and fatness of the bears in preparation for winter hibernation. Voting will continue until Tuesday when the fattest bear will be declared the winner.

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