Bureau of Land Management to Hold Bat Beauty Contest
The public can vote for contestants starting October 24 to help raise awareness for wildlife habitats on public lands.
Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Wildlife
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The Bureau of Land Management kicks off its annual Bat Beauty Contest on October 24, 2026, to celebrate wildlife on public lands. Voters can participate through the agency’s social media channels through Halloween.
Why it matters
This competition helps the public learn more about native wildlife species and the habitats found on federal lands. It brings attention to the ecological importance of bats as the contest moves through its bracket-style rounds.
Oregon bats have secured three consecutive wins in the contest, including last year's champion, Hoary Potter. This year, Oregon representative Ryan GosWING faces off against Montana's Dolly BATton in the opening round.
The players
Bureau of Land Management
A federal agency responsible for managing vast stretches of public lands and protecting the natural resources and wildlife found within them.
Ryan GosWING
An Oregon-based bat competing in the 2026 contest to defend the state's three-year winning streak.
Dolly BATton
A bat representing Montana currently competing against Oregon in the first round.
The details
The contest follows a structured bracket format, starting with an initial round of matchups before progressing to the Final Four. Participants engage by casting votes for their favorite contestants directly via the Bureau of Land Management's various social media profiles. The agency uses this interactive format to educate followers on the diversity of bat species and the specific environmental conditions of the public lands they inhabit.
Timeline
October 24, 2026: The Bat Beauty Contest begins.
October 25, 2026: Ryan GosWING competes in the first round.
October 28, 2026: The Final Four round takes place.
October 31, 2026: The contest concludes and the winner is crowned.
The Home Front
The contest functions as part of a broader federal effort to increase public awareness regarding the biodiversity supported by protected lands. It aligns with existing outreach initiatives designed to connect the public with the management of natural habitats across the country.
Check the Bureau of Land Management's social media accounts to participate in the voting process throughout the final week of October. Use this opportunity to look up local bat species in your area to better understand the wildlife sharing your regional ecosystem.
The takeaway
The annual competition serves as a reminder of the unique wildlife residing in public areas across the country. Consider following the agency's social media updates to cast your vote and engage with educational content about regional bat populations.
What happens next
The Final Four round is scheduled for October 28, 2026, with the overall contest winner to be announced on October 31, 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about local species and environmental preservation efforts on our Wildlife page.
Live Poll
Do you find online beauty contests an effective way to promote wildlife awareness in your community?
