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Chunk, the Underdog Bear, Wins Fat Bear Week 2025

Chunk's victory is a Cinderella story. Despite his injury, he secured over 96,000 votes, proving that determination can triumph over adversity.

In the center of the image we can see polar bears. At the bottom there is snow. In the background...
In the center of the image we can see polar bears. At the bottom there is snow. In the background there is grass.

Chunk, the Underdog Bear, Wins Fat Bear Week 2025

Fat Bear Week, a beloved annual event at Alaska's Katmai National Park and Preserve, has crowned its champion. Bear 747, affectionately known as 'Chunk', emerged victorious with an overwhelming majority of votes, highlighting the remarkable work of rangers at the fourth-largest national park in the US.

Chunk, weighing over 500 kilograms, faced off against bear 856 in the final round. Despite his impressive size, Chunk's victory was considered a Cinderella story. He had been nursing a broken jaw, a testament to his resilience and determination. The competition was fierce, with Chunk securing approximately 96,350 votes, beating his opponent by around 60.2% to 39.8%.

The event, which began in 2014, features 12 brown bears competing for the title of 'fattest bear'. It serves as an educational opportunity, allowing viewers to learn about these magnificent creatures and their habitat. The live cameras at Brooks Falls provide a unique insight into the bears' foraging for salmon, a crucial activity that helps them gain weight for their winter hibernation.

Chunk's victory in this year's Fat Bear Week is a remarkable testament to his strength and determination. His win highlights the importance of these events in educating the public about the lives of brown bears and the critical role of Katmai National Park in their survival.

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