Bear 747, last year's champ and contender in 2023, stands in a rushing river on August 3, 2023. This bear is one of the most dominant males. - F. Jimenez/National Park Service ...

"Bear 747 is an adult male in the prime of his life," noted Fitz on his blog. "First identified as a subadult bear in 2004, he’s matured into the largest bear I’ve ever seen." ...

• 747 bear: The 2022 winner is a large adult male with a blocky muzzle and floppy ears. He has become a giant among bears, once estimated to weigh 1,400 pounds (635 kilograms).

On Oct. 10, the NPS will crown the Fat Bear Champion of 2023. HERE'S THE FAT BEAR WEEK 2022 CHUNK CHAMPION Last year’s champion was Bear 747.