The Rio 2016 Organizing Committee unveiled the mascot on December 23, 2014. Design of the mascot was inspired by Brazilian fauna, representing the animals of Brazil and reflecting the enthusiasm of the country of Samba. Pictures of the mascot were posted on the official website of the Games. A combination of cartoon and reality, the design of the mascot includes elements of Brazilian pop cultures, video games and cartoon characters.

The mascot with yellow as the main color is a mix of different animals found in Brazil, possessing the agility of a cat, the balancing skills of a monkey and the grace of a bird.