The mascots - cartoon renditions of a Panda, Fish, Tibetan Antelope, Swallow and the Olympic Flame, each one the color of one of the Olympic rings. The animals were introduced as Bei Bei, Jing Jing, Huan Huan, Ying Ying and Ni Ni- which,put together, translates to "Beijing welcomes you!"

Fuwa BEIBEI

Figure of speech :BEI

The ornamental lines of BeiBei'water-wave designs, which are taken from well-known Chinese paintings of the past, echo the message of prosperity and success. Among the Five Friendlies, Beibei is known to be gentle and pure. Strong in water sports, she reflects the blue Olympic ring.

Fuwa JINGJING

Figure of speech:JING

The lotus designs in Jingjing's headdress, which are inspired by the porcelain paintings of the Song Dynasty, symbolize the lush forest and the harmonious relationship between man and nature. Jingjing was chosen to represent our desire to protect nature's gifts - and to preserve the beauty of nature for all generations. Among the Friendlies, Jingjing is charmingly naive and optimistic. He is an athlete noted for strength who represents the black Olympic ring.

Fuwa HUANHUAN

Figure of speech :HUAN

The fire designs of HuanHuan'head ornament are drawn from the famed Dunhuang murals - with just a touch of China's traditional lucky designs. Huanhuan is outgoing and enthusiastic. He excels at all the ball games and represents the red Olympic ring.

Fuwa YingYing

Figure of speech:YING

Yingying's flying pose captures the essence of a species unique to the Qinghai - Tibet Plateau, one of the first animals put under protection in China. The selection of the Tibetan Antelope reflects Beijing commitment to a Green Olympics. His head ornament incorporates several decorative styles from the Qinghai - Tibet and Sinkiang cultures and the ethnic design traditions of Western China. Strong in track and field event, Yingying is a quick-witted and agile boy who represents the yellow Olympic ring.

Fuwa Nini

Figure of Speech:NIN

Nini's figure is drawn from this grand tradition of flying designs. Her golden wings symbolize the infinite sky and spread good-luck as a blessing whenever she flies. Soaring above Beijing like her predecessors, Nini is a flying figure that personifies the beautiful content of life. Swallow is also pronounced"yan"in Chinese, and Yanjing is what Beijing was called as an ancient capital city, nestled in the Yanshan Mountains. Among the Friendlies, Nini is as innocent and joyful as a swallow. She is strong in gymnastics and represents the green Olympic ring.