Should Michigan Start Its Own ‘Fat Bear Week’?

Since we were little kids, we're conditioned to love bears. One of my favorite shows as a wee-lad was Bear in the Big Blue House. When I had to go to the doctor's, they gave me a stuffed teddy bear to keep me calm. I mean, who wouldn't be jealous of being able to sleep for months at a time?

If you ignore the fact some bears are apex predators, I see no issues with them. Bears are cute, cuddly, and can also be fat. VERY fat. So much so that there is an entire week dedicated to honoring these fat bears in Alaska called "Fat Bear Week".

We have plenty of bears of our own here in Michigan. The black bear population in Michigan is seeing an increase in population. Most of the population is in the Upper Peninsula, however, currently sitting at around 12,000 bears. Having a fattest bear competition would be fun and provide a way to provide critical education about bears.

Fat Bear Week

Every year the Katmai National Park and Preserve hosts "Fat Bear Week", a tournament-style bracket featuring 12 chunky brown bears "fighting' (people vote online) for the title of the Fattest Bear of the Year. To survive hibernation, bears eat a year's worth of food in six months and live off their fat reserves during the winter.

Read More: Is It Legal To Own A Bear As A Pet In Michigan? |

So while voting is a fun way to admire the wildlife in the region, it also serves as education. Sprinkled throughout the week are various educational series hosted by rangers of the park service.

I would love to see a Fattest Bear Week here in Michigan if only to selfishly see some really fat bears from around the state.

If you can't tell, I'm easily entertained.