Fat Bear Week Is Back. Here’s Your Reading List.

Fat Bear Week Is Back. Here’s Your Reading List.

It’s that time of year again – the leaves are changing, the air is getting cooler, and the bears in Katmai National Park are getting ready for their annual Fat Bear Week competition. This unique event, which takes place every October, celebrates the bears’ remarkable ability to pack on the pounds in preparation for their long winter hibernation.

The concept of Fat Bear Week is simple: over the course of several weeks, park rangers and volunteers at Katmai National Park photograph the bears as they fatten up on salmon in preparation for the winter. These photos are then posted online, and the public is invited to vote for their favorite fat bear in a bracket-style competition. The bear with the most votes at the end of the week is crowned the fattest bear of the year.

But Fat Bear Week is more than just a lighthearted contest – it’s also an opportunity to raise awareness about the challenges facing these magnificent animals. Grizzly bears, which are a subspecies of brown bear, are a keystone species in the ecosystems where they live. They play a crucial role in maintaining healthy populations of fish, plants, and other animals, and they are an important symbol of wilderness and natural beauty. However, grizzly bears are also facing a number of threats, including habitat loss, climate change, and conflicts with humans. By drawing attention to the bears’ annual struggle to survive the winter, Fat Bear Week helps to highlight the importance of protecting these iconic animals and the landscapes they call home.

If you’re interested in learning more about Fat Bear Week and the bears of Katmai National Park, there are plenty of resources available to help you get started. Here’s a reading list to help you dive into the world of fat bears.

1. "The Bears of Brooks Falls" by Mike Fitz

This book, written by National Park Service ranger and bear expert Mike Fitz, offers a comprehensive look at the bears of Katmai National Park and their unique behaviors and adaptations. With stunning photographs and detailed descriptions, "The Bears of Brooks Falls" provides an intimate portrait of these remarkable animals and the challenges they face in the wild.

2. "Bears of the Last Frontier" by Chris Morgan

In this captivating book, wildlife biologist Chris Morgan takes readers on a journey into the heart of bear country – the rugged landscapes of Alaska. Through vivid storytelling and firsthand experiences, Morgan shares his deep love and respect for these powerful creatures, and offers insights into their behavior, ecology, and conservation.

3. "The Hidden Life of Trees" by Peter Wohlleben

While not specifically about bears, this bestselling book by German forester Peter Wohlleben offers a fascinating look at the interconnectedness of the natural world – including the relationships between trees, animals, and humans. By exploring the complex networks and communication systems that exist within forests, Wohlleben sheds light on the intricate web of life that supports all living creatures, including bears.

4. "Braiding Sweetgrass" by Robin Wall Kimmerer

In this thought-provoking and lyrical book, botanist and Native American author Robin Wall Kimmerer explores the intersections of indigenous wisdom, scientific knowledge, and the natural world. Through personal stories and ecological insights, Kimmerer offers a powerful meditation on the reciprocal relationships between people and the land, and the importance of fostering a deep respect for all living beings, including bears.

5. "The Grizzly Maze" by Nick Jans

For a gripping and suspenseful read, check out "The Grizzly Maze" by acclaimed writer and wildlife photographer Nick Jans. This true story chronicles the life and death of Timothy Treadwell, a controversial bear enthusiast who lived among the grizzlies in Alaska for 13 summers. Jans offers a nuanced and compelling portrayal of Treadwell’s complex relationship with the bears, and the tragic events that ultimately led to his demise.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply curious about the world of fat bears, there’s a wealth of literature available to help you explore the wonders of Katmai National Park and the remarkable creatures that call it home. So grab a book, cozy up with a cup of tea, and immerse yourself in the fascinating world of Fat Bear Week.