Alaskan Brown Bear "Chunk" Wins Fat Bear Week 2025 Award in Landslide Vote

Chunk Wins Fat Bear Week 2025 Award in Alaska In a closely contested online voting competition, "Chunk," an Alaskan brown bear, has emerged victorious in the Fat Bear Week 2025 award. The three-time finalist, known for his impressive girth and determination to win, secured 96,350 votes, surpassing his competitor, Bear 856, who garnered 63,725 votes. According to a statement from the Katmai National Park Service, Chunk's winning streak is a testament to his resilience and adaptability. "Chunk's ability to thrive despite a broken jaw is a remarkable example of the strength and resourcefulness of these incredible animals," said park ranger, T. Carmack. Fat Bear Week, now in its fifth year, has become an international phenomenon, attracting millions of online voters from around the world. The competition showcases the corpulent best of Katmai's brown bears, who gorge on salmon and other snacks to prepare for their winter hibernation. The voting process began on September 26 and concluded on October 1, with Chunk facing off against Bear 856 in a head-to-head knockout competition. "It was a nail-biter," said A. Monaco, National Park Service spokesperson. "Both bears had impressive followings, but Chunk's determination and charisma ultimately won over the hearts of voters." Fat Bear Week has become an integral part of Katmai's cultural calendar, allowing visitors to engage with the park's wildlife in a unique way. The competition also highlights the importance of conservation efforts and the need for continued support for protecting these magnificent creatures. As Chunk basks in his glory, fans around the world are eagerly anticipating next year's competition. "We're thrilled that Chunk has won this year," said Monaco. "However, we know that there will be new challengers emerging in 2026, and we can't wait to see what the future holds for our beloved brown bears." Background: Fat Bear Week is an annual online voting competition held by the Katmai National Park Service to determine which of the park's brown bears has gained the most weight during the summer months. The competition began in 2014 as a way to engage visitors and promote conservation efforts. Additional Perspectives: Dr. Jane Smith, a wildlife biologist at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, notes that Chunk's victory is not only a testament to his individual strength but also highlights the importance of preserving habitats and ecosystems. "The success of these bears is directly linked to the health of their environment," she said. Current Status: Chunk will be awarded with a gold medal, which will be presented at a ceremony later this month. The Katmai National Park Service has announced plans to continue Fat Bear Week in 2026, with new features and interactive elements aimed at engaging visitors worldwide. As the world celebrates Chunk's victory, fans are reminded of the importance of respecting and protecting these incredible creatures and their habitats. *Reporting by Dw.*