Hunt for ugliest animals on earth begins

Blobfish, axolotl and proboscis monkey are battling it out for the ugliest animals on earth title.

Other contenders for the prize include the pubic louse and the pig-nosed turtle.

People behind the Ugly Animal Preservation Society, have set out their first ever campaign to find the ugliest creature on earth, the Independent reported.

In an effort to raise awareness of the large number of less-than-attractive creatures under threat of extinction, the UAPS is asking the general public to vote for an official mascot to front their campaign.

A number of celebrities have already back the campaign, including Stephen Fry who tipped the greater short-horned lizard for the prize.

After voters have selected the winner of the prize, biologist Simon Watt will formally declare it the winner at the British Science Festival next month.