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Backpack Declared Winner of Alaska's Fat Bear Week

Wednesday, September 30, 2026 · 4 sources

Backpack, a bear at Katmai National Park and Preserve in Alaska, has been declared the winner of Fat Bear Week. The competition determines the heftiest bear in the park.

Backpack, a bear at Katmai National Park and Preserve in Alaska, has been declared the winner of Fat Bear Week. This competition, which takes place annually, aims to determine the heftiest bear in the park.

The winner is chosen based on the bear's weight gain throughout the year, with the goal of preparing for hibernation. Backpack's significant weight gain earned the bear the top spot in this year's competition.

Katmai National Park and Preserve is home to a large population of brown bears, and the park's Fat Bear Week competition has become a popular event. The competition is decided by public vote, with fans voting for their favorite bear online.

Go Deeper

What is Fat Bear Week?

Fat Bear Week is an annual competition held at Katmai National Park and Preserve in Alaska to determine the heftiest bear in the park. The competition is based on the bear's weight gain throughout the year, which helps them prepare for hibernation.

How is the winner of Fat Bear Week chosen?

The winner of Fat Bear Week is chosen by public vote, with fans voting for their favorite bear online. The bear with the most significant weight gain is typically considered the heftiest and wins the competition.

Where is Katmai National Park and Preserve located?

Katmai National Park and Preserve is located in Alaska and is home to a large population of brown bears. The park is known for its beautiful landscapes and wildlife, including the bears that participate in Fat Bear Week.

What is the purpose of a bear's weight gain?

A bear's weight gain is crucial for preparing for hibernation. During hibernation, bears do not eat or drink, so they need to build up their fat reserves to sustain themselves throughout the winter.

Can the public participate in Fat Bear Week?

Yes, the public can participate in Fat Bear Week by voting for their favorite bear online. The competition is open to the public, and fans can vote for the bear they think has gained the most weight and is the heftiest.