These otterly adorable animals are 'participating' in beauty contests

Surely it is not uncommon to organise a beauty contest. But how about one for otters? Yes, you read that right. Japan has actually launched the inaugural most kawaii competition for 84 otters from the whole country.

This competition, which is open for online voting from 31 August 2017, pits otters from 36 zoos and aquariums in Japan against each other. In a specially created website, each venue introduces their proudest otter with posters and promotional videos.

Check out the official clip from the organisers, showing the various furry creatures!

The participating otters consist of four different types: Asian small-clawed otters, Eurasian otters, African clawless otters and North American river otters.

Voting is open until 9 October 2017. The results will be announced during an otter performance at Sunshine City Aquarium at Ikebukuro on 15 October, and will be put up on the website soon after.

A trophy designed by Urushi Kagijou – creator of the small-clawed otter character, Kotsumetti – will be presented to the zoo or aquarium of the champion otter.

Through this competition, using the cute looks of otters, the objective is to raise awareness of the otters’ ecology and habitat, and the preservation of their species.

While most of us may not be able to head to Tokyo to witness these kawaii but ferocious otters – when it comes to eating anyway – we can still catch a glimpse of our local creatures at various locations!

Just remember to give them space and not disturb them if you do see any around.

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