Chunk the Bear Clinches Victory in Fat Bear Week 2025

Katmai National Park and Preserve, Alaska – The highly anticipated results of Fat Bear Week 2025 are in, and Bear 32, affectionately nicknamed Chunk, has emerged as this year’s champion. This annual competition engages the public in a spirited voting process to select their favorite brown bear, drawing inspiration from the excitement of March Madness. The event is organized in collaboration between Katmai National Park and Preserve, the nonprofit Katmai Conservancy, and the online platform Explore.org.

Chunk: The Resilient Contender

Weighing approximately 1,200 pounds, Chunk distinguished himself this year not only through his impressive size but also his remarkable resilience. Despite facing significant challenges, including a healing broken jaw that may pose a long-term disability, Chunk continually demonstrated his spirit and determination. He persistently showed up at the Brooks River, where he skillfully fished for salmon, capturing the admiration of voters nationwide.

The Importance of Weight Gain for Brown Bears

As autumn approaches, brown bears, including Chunk, must accumulate fat reserves to endure the harsh winter months. During this period, these majestic creatures can gain up to four pounds daily, which is essential for survival as they may lose approximately one-third of their stored body fat while hibernating. Such weight-gaining efforts highlight the bears’ natural behaviors and underscore the vital role of food availability in their ecosystems.

A Celebration of Nature and Conservation

Fat Bear Week not only celebrates the captivating lives of these bears but also raises awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation. By engaging the public in this event, the organizers aim to foster a deeper appreciation for the challenges these animals face and the efforts necessary to preserve their habitats.

In conclusion, the triumph of Chunk in Fat Bear Week 2025 serves as a testament to the resilience of wildlife and the ongoing efforts to protect their natural environments.