Starting today, bear fans around the world can vote online for their chubby favourite. In one week, this year's winner will be crowned from 16 participating bears.
There is no such thing as a “too fat” bear. The fatter a bear is, the healthier it is, conservationist Sarah Bruce tells Alaska Public Media.
More blubber means a better chance of surviving winter hibernation. This year, participants are said to be plumper than ever, as the summer has provided good salmon stocks.
The event in Katmai National Park has been held since 2014, with the aim of raising awareness about bears and the ecosystem. This year, there is an extra focus on females with cubs.
The mothers not only have to give birth themselves but also to all the cubs, Bruce notes.
