The shortlist consists of three animals associated with winter climates in the form of a moose, a lynx and a weasel, with voting opening today via the Lillehammer 2016 Facebook page.

The voting will be open for more than a week before closing on June 5, with more details on how to cast votes available here.

Details on how choices can be made are outlined on the Lillehammer 2016 Facebook page ©Facebook




This represents the latest attempt to bring attention to the Games, which begin in 18 months following the inaugural Winter Youth Olympics in Innsbruck in January 2012.

The mascots, and the competition to select them, also fits with the youthful and vibrant image associated with the Games, as well as the Lillehammer 2016 slogan of "Go beyond. Create tomorrow".

This follows last week's inspection visit by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Coordination Commission, along with a visit by IOC President Thomas Bach, which Games organisers claim has "energised the bid".

The Games are due to take place in the Norwegian city from February 12 to 21 in 2016, with young winter athletes from all around the world set to compete. 

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