Everything You Need to Know About 2023 Fat Bear Week

The fatter the bear, the better the odds at survival. Find out what fat bear week is and why we celeberate it.

By Donna Sarkar
Oct 4, 2023 2:00 PMOct 4, 2023 2:41 PM
Brown Bear 480 Otis in the water of Brooks Falls, Alaska
Famous Brown Bear 480 Otis at Brooks Falls, Alaska (Credit: Mark_Kostich/Shutterstock)

Newsletter

Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news
 

So many reasons to love fall — crisp air, colorful leaves, sweater weather and of course, Fat Bear Week! Each fall, the competition showcases chunky brown bears that are packing on pounds to prepare for winter hibernation.

Brooks River in Katmai National Park, Alaska houses a large population of these hefty bears where the competition takes place. Votes are cast online for the fattest bear in a March Madness-style bracket and the audience helps choose the ultimate victor.

Fat Bear Week remains a fun fall tradition to spread awareness of the brown bears' experiences as they fight for food and survival before Alaska's harsh cold season arrives. It also raises money for bear conservation.

What Is Fat Bear Week?

(Credit: Katmai National Park & Presever/explore.com/Katmai Conservancy)
0 free articles left
Want More? Get unlimited access for as low as $1.99/month

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

0 free articlesSubscribe
Discover Magazine Logo
Want more?

Keep reading for as low as $1.99!

Subscribe

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

Stay Curious

Sign up for our weekly newsletter and unlock one more article for free.

 

View our Privacy Policy


Want more?
Keep reading for as low as $1.99!


Log In or Register

Already a subscriber?
Find my Subscription

More From Discover
Recommendations From Our Store
Shop Now
Stay Curious
Join
Our List

Sign up for our weekly science updates.

 
Subscribe
To The Magazine

Save up to 40% off the cover price when you subscribe to Discover magazine.

Copyright © 2024 Kalmbach Media Co.