Fat Bear Week 2024 brought a whirlwind of drama, fierce competition, and an emotional climax as fans from around the world voted to crown Katmai National Park’s fattest bear. This year’s final showdown between Grazer (Bear 128) and Chunk (Bear 32) was not just about size, but a story of resilience, revenge, and survival.
The competition kicked off with the usual fun of voting on which bear best exemplifies success in fattening up for the long Alaskan winter. But as the week unfolded, the backstory between Grazer and Chunk added intense drama. Earlier in July, Grazer’s two cubs were swept over Brooks Falls, right into the fishing zone dominated by Chunk. Tragically, despite Grazer’s fearless attempt to protect them, Chunk attacked her cubs, and one did not survive. The brutal encounter shocked viewers, many of whom followed the bears through Katmai’s live cams.
Grazer, known for her fierce mothering and highly defensive behavior, has long been a fan favorite. Her dedication to her cubs and remarkable ability to stand up to larger male bears earned her a reputation as one of the most respected bears at Brooks River. Even though she suffered the loss of a cub, Grazer continued to embody strength, fattening up impressively for winter.
In the final showdown, Grazer faced Chunk—the very bear responsible for her cub’s death. Fans rallied behind her, and after over a million votes were cast, Grazer emerged victorious with a landslide 71,248 votes to Chunk’s 30,468. This marks her second consecutive Fat Bear Week win, solidifying her status as the queen of Katmai’s bears.
Chunk, though defeated, remains a massive and dominant figure on the river, often securing the best fishing spots with little challenge from other bears. His immense size and ability to gorge on salmon are unmatched, but this year, Grazer’s resilience captured the hearts of voters.
Grazer’s win is a testament to her adaptability and strength. Despite the hardships she faced, she continues to thrive in the wild, reminding us of the harsh yet beautiful realities of life at Katmai National Park. Fat Bear Week 2024 will be remembered not only for the celebration of the bears’ incredible weight gain but for the emotional journey of Grazer, who turned her personal tragedy into triumph.
Stay tuned for more updates on our Unforgettable Alaskan Experiences as we continue to celebrate the wildlife and adventure that makes Katmai National Park so extraordinary.