You're probably familiar with Celtic Tree Astrology, but did you know that the Celts also used animal zodiac signs?
A Guide to Celtic Animal Zodiac Signs and Meanings
The Celts were closely tied to nature. They followed the seasons, based their zodiac on the Lunar cycle, and placed special importance on trees and animals. (Check out this page on the Celtic Tree of Life to learn more about how the Celts were connected to nature.)
The Celts saw the animal world as being closely connected to their own. Animals were thought to have specific qualities and characteristics. Over time, these qualities and characteristics evolved to become specific meanings the Celts associated with each type of animal.
The Celts observed the behavior of animals and humans, noticing a correlation between the Celtic animal meanings and the Celtic tree zodiac signs. Each Celtic tree zodiac sign was assigned a corresponding Celtic animal zodiac sign.
In this way, your Celtic animal zodiac sign is an extension of your Celtic tree zodiac sign. Your Celtic animal sign's meaning and symbols provide further insight into your personality and behavior.
I hope you enjoy this information on Celtic animal signs as much as I do.
Click on the links to learn more about each animal.
Celtic Zodiac Animal Signs: Meanings and Symbols
Green Dragon (January 21 – February 17)
The Green Dragon Celtic animal sign is a symbol of spiritual growth. An animal of the elements, it is quite powerful and needs to pay attention to whether it's being used for good or evil. Green dragons have excellent eyesight, enabling them to easily see into the heart of matters. This makes them excellent guardians of treasure, wisdom and secrets.
Seahorse (February 19 – March 27)
The Seahorse is associated with all the mystical qualities of the water element. It is able to change to suit its environment at will, possessing great flexibility and resourcefulness. This Celtic animal zodiac sign is extremely patient and is happy remaining at home where family is a top priority. It enjoys both giving and receiving affection.
Hawk (March 18 – April 14)
The Hawk Celtic animal sign is very aware of its surroundings and remains alert to any sudden changes. Whenever it sees something it wants, it goes after it. A Hawk sees the bigger picture and how everything in life connects together. It can easily soar to success and achieve its highest potential.
Sea-Serpent (April 15 – May 12)
The Celtic animal zodiac sign of Sea-serpent is a symbol of growth and regeneration. It unites people together and offers great healing to those who need it, even if it's just an ear to listen. The Sea-serpent is quite attractive and knows how to use its powers of seduction. It is a fierce guardian of those it cares about, and isn't afraid to strike when threatened.
Fox (May 13 – June 9)
The Fox is cunning, crafty and wise. It is very intelligent and is quite shrewd at business. This Celtic animal sign lives a life of great adventure. You're sure to have an exciting time when you're in their company. But beware, the Fox is a great seducer who can weave its way into your heart before you realize what's happened.
White Horse (June 10 – July 7)
The White Horse Celtic animal zodiac sign is pure, spiritual, and godly. Filled with strength and stamina, it is caring and helpful. The White Horse loves its freedom and to travel. It's quite lucky in finances and is a natural leader.
Unicorn (July 8 – August 4)
The Celtic animal zodiac sign of Unicorn represents a balance of the elements…light and dark…the Sun and the Moon. It has an unending spirit and great endurance. The Unicorn is extremely intelligent and loyal. It's a natural care-giver and healer, helping those around it in time of need.
Rainbow Salmon (August 5 – September 1)
The Rainbow Salmon is very wise and possesses a deep knowledge of life. Often living a very long life, it has experiences and secret information that few ever acquire. This Celtic animal zodiac sign enjoys the esoteric and thinking outside of the box. It can see the bigger picture, allowing it to easily overcome challenges.
White Swan (September 2 – September 29)
The White Swan Celtic animal sign is very graceful and full of strength. Known for its fidelity and longevity, it is a faithful lover and life-long friend. The White Swan has the ability to transform the world around it, reshaping it to match its desires. It has very high standards and a natural aura of nobility. The Swan has very refined taste and knows exactly what it wants, down to the smallest detail.
Butterfly (September 30 – October 27)
This Celtic animal sign is a perfect example of the phrase “social butterfly.” It can often be seen flitting to and from at parties, with friends and family, or simply having a conversation with a stranger in a coffee shop. It is a dreamer who enjoys exploring new ideas. The Butterfly is very charismatic, charming, and an eternal optimist.
White Hound (October 28 – November 24)
The White Hound Celtic animal sign is fiercely loyal. It has a keen eyesight enabling it to see right to the heart of the matter. It enjoys helping others, whether it's through teaching, mentoring, working in the medical profession, or simply offering good advice. White Hounds are natural mediators with strong psychic abilities.
Black Horse (November 25 – December 23)
The Black Horse is a powerful, strong leader. This Celtic animal zodiac sign is a natural athlete and has unmatched endurance. Quite adept in the military and other fields that allow it to use its natural talents, the Horse can rise up the ranks quickly.
Stag (December 24 – January 20)
The Celtic animal sign of Stag is very aware of its environment. It will defend its friends and beliefs quite courageously. It is extremely intelligent and swift of mind and action. Stags are often drawn to the medical field, where they can find great success.
* Seahorse image by kconnors, Black horse image by Karpati Gabor, Salmon image by Matthew Hull
If you want more information on Celtic animal zodiac, you might also like:
- Celtic Cat: Meaning and Zodiac Sign
- Celtic Astrology Compatibility
- Celtic Birch Zodiac Sign
- Celtic Tattoos: History and Meaning
- Celtic Vine Zodiac Sign
- Celtic Willow Zodiac Sign