The bird that is a central symbol in 'The Hunger Games' books is the Mockingjay. The Mockingjay is a hybrid of the Mockingbird and the Jabberjay, which were both genetically modified birds created by the Capitol to spy on the rebels during the previous uprising. In the books, the Mockingjay becomes a symbol of rebellion against the oppressive Capitol and represents the spirit of the people who refuse to submit. Katniss Everdeen, the protagonist of the series, becomes known as the Mockingjay and uses her position to lead the rebellion against the Capitol.