In Alaska, 'There Is No Such Thing as Too Fat of a Bear'

The brackets are set as the biggest show in bear-watching kicks off. Katmai National Park's Fat Bear Week begins on Tuesday, with 16 supersize brown bears vying for the public's votes and the title of heftiest champ, per Alaska Public Media. Fueled by an unusually strong sockeye salmon run, the contenders have spent the summer nearly doubling their weight; one past bear was pegged at about 1,400 pounds. "There is no such thing as too fat of a bear," says park ranger Sarah Bruce, who notes that a heavier bear means a healthier bear, as that bulk is key to surviving hibernation.

The AP notes that viewers can check out the bears on livestreams here before making their pick online. This year's twist: instead of a "Fat Bear Junior" bracket, entire bear families are featured to spotlight the extra work that mothers do feeding both their cubs and themselves, per APM. Fan favorite Chunk, who won last year, returns, broken jaw and all, alongside offspring of past winners like Grazer and Holly. Voting runs online for a chance to claim bragging rights, as well as see lots of bear photos. The winner will be announced on Sept. 29, reports USA Today.