Nini is a swallow with outspread wings. Her designed is inspired by the traditional swallow-shape kite of Beijing. The Chinese character for swallow is read as "yan", which happens to be the same character for an older name of Beijing.
Nini brings us joy as she tells us the Spring is coming. She sends greetings and good wishes to everyone wherever she fies. Cuddly but agile, she will be featured in Gymnastics events in the Olympics. She also reprents the green Olympic Ring.