The annual Fat Bear Week competition, showcasing Alaska's plumpest brown bears, begins September 23rd. Returning contenders include Grazer, a protective mother bear, and Chunk, recovering from a jaw injury. The contest, streamed live from Katmai National Park, encourages voters to choose the bear best representing fatness and survival success. This year's bears are exceptionally large due to a bountiful salmon run. The competition, initially a small event, has grown globally, attracting millions of viewers and votes annually.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.