Chinese New Year on the Net - Chinese Zodiac: Year of the Rooster

Chinese Zodiac:
Sign of the Rooster

The Chinese calendar is divided not by numerical years, as is in the Western concept of time, but in a 12-year cycle of animal signs, which continually repeat themselves. According to Chinese legend, these twelve signs are the Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Ram (Sheep), Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Boar (Pig).

In Chinese folklore, traits and characteristics similar to the Zodiac horoscope have developed around each of these annual animal signs -- some of which are more desirable than others. Here is a look at the qualities of each of them.

Next Year of the Rooster: Jan 28, 2017

Sign of the Rooster

Like the brash, cocky rooster, people born under the Year of the Rooster are feisty and outwardly confident. Roosters know who they are -- and they like themselves, which often leads to bragging and claims of greatness. But Roosters are hard-working and loyal, two qualities which redeem their brash exterior. Roosters are also fundamentally social, preferring to be surrounded by friends and family. Whether this is due to their genuine affinity for people, or because they simply appreciate any opportunity to be at the center of attention, remains to be determined.