Each year, the Alaskan national park Katmai puts its plump bears’ accomplishments on display for the world to see. The Katmai bears have a unique situation- their park is home to the world’s most plentiful run of wild salmon and one of the last truly healthy ecosystems of its kind, meaning the bears have an opportunity to become truly gigantic. The title “Fat Bear Week” might sound like an insult, but it is a celebration of these bears’ continued survival. 

This year’s Fat Bear Week brought its share of drama to the media. Voting scandals don’t just rock national elections anymore, they’ve even reached Fat Bear Week! The integrity of the elections was questioned in the final pairing of the bracket; 747 vs. Holly. 

When over 9,000 votes suddenly appeared for Holly closing in on the end of the voting period, organizers realized spam votes were the source of such a spike. 747 was able to earn his rightful place as the fattest bear with 37,940 votes in his favor. Although 747 is blissfully unaware of these elections even occurring, we can’t help but congratulate him on such an impressive victory.

Not everyone was thrilled to see 747’s triumph. Supporters of four-time former champion Otis were sad to see him lose this year. Sadly, there can be only one “fattest bear”, but Katmai park assures us all bears are winners to them. 

The chunky bears don’t just bring fun and environmental awareness each October, but also an increase in funding for Katmai conservation initiatives. Fans of the candidates enjoy watching them on the live bear feeds set up in the park through Explore.org, so many donate to the Otis Fund during the week to support conservation and education on behalf of the bears. As of now, over $130,000 has been raised to support conservation efforts in the park, all of which will be matched by Explore.org.

Fat Bear Week is an excellent example of how getting the public involved in animal welfare efforts can be really successful. Many zoos use a similar voting method to name new baby animals—with each vote costing a low amount to cast and the potential to raise millions for conservation. People like getting involved with their favorite animals in non-harmful ways, and events like Fat Bear Week help to promote healthy interactions between people and wildlife. Perhaps 747’s reign as Fat Bear Week champion can serve as inspiration for even happier, fatter bears worldwide.