(Bureau of Land Management Press Release, October 20, 2026)
WASHINGTON — As spooky season takes flight, the Bureau of Land Management is inviting the public to celebrate Bat Week by voting in its annual Bat Beauty Contest, in partnership with Bat Conservation International! From adorable faces to impressive ears, bats found on public lands across the country are ready to compete for the title of the nation’s most beautiful bat.
The contest runs October 24-31, giving the public a chance to meet some of the fascinating bats that call America’s public lands home. Follow on Facebook and Instagram to see this year’s contestants, cast your vote, and help crown the winner on Halloween.
While these winged wonders are perfect for spooky season fun, bats play an important role in healthy ecosystems. They help control insect populations, pollinate plants, and disperse seeds, making them valuable residents of public lands across the country.
The Bat Beauty Contest is a fun way to shine a spotlight on these often-misunderstood animals and encourage the public to learn more about the wildlife and habitats found on public lands.
For more information and contest updates, follow the BLM on social media.
The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.
