The mascot has a collar bearing the World Championships logo and will serve as an ambassador for Finsterau 2017, which is expected to attract 135 of the world’s best biathletes and cross-country skiers from 25 countries between February 10 and 19 to the German resort.

It is described as a perfect example of the wildlife of the area, as the Bavarian Forest National Park is home to the some of the world’s last wild lynx, and is said to represent strength, assertiveness and willpower.

The Local Organising Committee is holding a Facebook competition, accessible here, where people can suggest the name they think best suits the mascot.

They are looking for entries which reflect Bavaria and the Championships and are offering several prizes, including tickets to a local spa and a VIP experience during one of the biathlon competition days, for the winning entry.

Organisers have claimed preparations for the competition, which is set to take place at the SV Finsterau Sports Club, are entering their final stages.

The Opening Ceremony of the last major event before the Pyeongchang 2018 Winter Paralympic Games is due to take place on February 10, with competition in middle-distance biathlon the following day and cross-country sprint on February 12.

Following official training on February 13, there will be competition scheduled in individual biathlon on February 14, open and mixed cross-country relays on February 15, and long-distance cross-country on February 16.

Another day of official training is scheduled for February 17, while sprint biathlon competition is due to be held on February 18 and middle-distance cross-country competition on February 19, the same day as the Closing Ceremony.

The final competition to take place before Finsterau 2017 will be the World Cup in Western Center, Ukraine, which will take place from January 13 to 20.