The Chinese Year of the horse is one of the twelve Chinese zodiac signs. Unlike in our western astrology, in Chinese astrology each sign lasts for a year. Legend has it that as Buddha was about to depart the earth he summoned all the animals to say goodbye. Only twelve turned up so, to show his appreciation of their loyalty, he vowed that from then on each year would bear the name of one of the animals.

Chinese astrology is based on the Lunar Calendar. This means the Chinese New Year does not fall on the same day each year and can vary by as much as 3 weeks. So for babies born in late January/early February it is necessary to consult the charts to determine the correct sign.

You will find a chart of the dates and signs below.

9 February 2005 - 28 January 2006: Rooster

22 January 2004 - 8 February 2005: Monkey

1 February 2003 - 21 January 2004: Goat

12 February 2002 - 31 January 2003: Horse

24 January 2001 - 11 February 2002: Snake

5 February 2000 - 23 January 2001: Dragon

6 February 1999 - 4 February 2000: Rabbit

28 January 1998 - 5 February 1999: Tiger

8 February 1997 - 27 January 1998: Ox

19 February 1996 - 7 February 1997: Rat

31 January 1995 - 18 February 1996: Pig

10 February 1994 - 30 January 1995: Dog

23 January 1993 - 9 February 1994: Rooster

4 February 1992 - 22 January 1993: Monkey

15 February 1991 - 3 February 1992: Goat

27 January 1990 - 14 February 1991: Horse

6 February 1989 - 26 January 1990: Snake

17 February 1988 - 5 February 1989: Dragon

29 January 1987 - 16 February 1988: Rabbit

9 February 1986 - 28 January 1987: Tiger

20 February 1985 - 8 February 1986: Ox

2 February 1984 - 19 February 1985: Rat

13 February 1983 - 1 February 1984: Pig

25 February 1982 - 12 February 1983: Dog

If you were born under the Chinese sign of the Snake, you are a classy Born undre the Chinese sign of the Snake!one! Snakes are wise and subtle, achieving through wit, cunning and stealth. Usually slow moving, they can strike with lightening speed, taking others by surprise.

People born under this sign are graceful and elegant. They are also cultured and intelligent, loving good books, music and the theatre. Snakes dress well and will never wear fake jewellery or cheap substitutes.

Snakes are economical and efficient, using just enough energy to get the job done. Even when resting their minds are constantly working. Snakes should not be underestimated, if they put their mind to it Snakes can achieve great things.

Don't cross a Snake, they will hold a grudge for years and wait for the perfect moment to strike back.

Snakes don't display much emotion and do well in business, often accumulating considerable wealth. They can be devious if this is to their benefit.