Unlike western astrology cycles, Chinese Star Signs occur over the period of a year. This year (2008) is the year of the Rat, and began in February. Each signs term begins each February and there are 12 signs altogether.

The Chinese Astrology Signs consist of 12 animals - These include the Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Sheep, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig. Each sign has its own characteristics and compatibility with other signs. Each signs animal, year, characteristics and compatibility are included below:

Rat (1900,1912,1924,1936,1948,1960,1972,1984,1996,2008)The rat is seen as good luck in the Eastern region and is viewed differently as being quick witted and humourous. They are motivated by money,and have great ambition. If you are a Rat you will be more compatible with Monkeys and Dragons. However your least compatible sign is Horses.

Ox (1901,1913,1925,1937,1949,1961,1973,1985,1997,2009) The Ox is a leader among men, stubborn, judgemental and of strong character. The Ox's compatible signs are Roosters and Snakes, and least compatible with Sheep.

Tiger (1902,1914,1926,1938,1950,1962,1974,1986,1998,2010) Tigers are sensitive, have great courage and cn be aggressive.They have a tendancy to become leaders or become rebellious.If you are a tiger you are more compatible with dogs and horse, but not with monkeys.

Rabbit (1903,1915,1927,1939,1951,1963,1975,1987,1999,2011) A popular chinese star sign, the rabbit has many friends. Rabbits are generallt sensitive and compassionate people. Goats and Pigs are a Rabbits most compatible signs.

Dragon (1904,1916,1928,1940,1952,1964,1976,1988,2000,2012) Known for being creative and leading by example, the dragon is seen as as lucky sign.They are opportunistic and strive for power in their lives. Dragons are most compatible with Rats.

Snake (1905,1917,1929,1941,1953,1965,1977,1989,2001,2013) People born under the Snake sign are known for their wisdom an vanity. They are more likely to attract money than most signs. They are compatible with the Ox and the Rooster.

Horse (1906,1918,1930,1942,1954,1966,1978,1990,2002,2014) The horse is an attractive sign and like the Rabbit, the Horse is popular. However, there are times when their patience can run thin. They are compatible with Dogs and Tigers. The are least compatible with Rats

Sheep (1907,1919,1931,1943,1955,1967,1979,1991,2003,2015) Another creative sign, the sheep is more timid than most other chinese signs. They are most compatible with Rabbits and Pigs. Sheep should avoid the Ox.

Monkey (1908,1920,1932,1944,1956,1968,1980,1992,2004,2016) If you are a Monkey, you are more equipped to influence others and are part of an intelligent group. They are attentive and excellent problem solvers. Monkeys are best matched with Dragons and Rats. It is wise for Monkeys to avoid Tigers.

Rooster (1909,1921,1933,1945,1957,1969,1981,1993,2005,2017) This knowledge seeking sign, is an explorer by nature and a hard worker.The can think quickly on their feet. Rooster are most compatible with the Ox and Snake.

Dog (1910,1922,1934,1946,1958,1970,1982,1994,2006,2018) The dog is a god listener and loyal friend. The Dog believes in justice for all.They are compatible with the Horse and Tiger.

Pig (1911,1923,1935,1947,1959,1971,1983,1995,2007,2019) The have afancy nature and are known for their honour and generosity.They work hard to keep those close to them happy and content. The Pig is compatible with the Rabbit and the Sheep.

Visit Astrology Messenger to find out more about Chinese Astrology signs