Meet Bear #32 “Chunk”
Year First Observed: ~2007
Year Last Observed: 2025
Bear #32 "Chunk" is a male brown bear first identified around 2007 as a young subadult at Brooks River in Katmai National Park and Preserve. He is distinguished by his medium-brown coat, which often sheds around the shoulders and neck, revealing lighter fur and creating a two-toned appearance. His large hindquarters give him a chunky silhouette, which is the origin of his nickname “Chunk.” Over time, he has accumulated several small scars across his neck and face, as well as a larger one across his snout from interactions with other bears.
As a subadult, Chunk often avoided the largest adult males but gradually began appearing more frequently in the fishing pools. In recent seasons, he has been observed among the dominant bears on site, alternating between active fishing and waiting near the pools. In 2025, he returned with a broken jaw and missing teeth but continued to feed successfully.
Fun Facts
Likely arrived at Brooks River as early as 2007
Known for his bulk-laden hindquarters and smaller front shoulders, giving him a distinctive chunky look
As a subadult, scavenged scraps and avoided larger males, but later held territory
In 2021, observed with a large gash across his muzzle yet continued to feed
Recognizable for his two-toned coat, lighter around the shoulders and darker elsewhere, with pointed ears
In 2025, despite jaw and lip injuries, continued fishing and remaining present at Brooks Falls
Participated in Fat Bear Week multiple times, including as a winner in 2025.