Spirit animals are thought to be both the space of your spirit as well as the animal that you should allow to guide you in life. Whether you are wondering what animal your psyche most identifies with, or the reason behind why a certain animal keeps appearing to you, knowing your spirit animal can help to bring you answers.
What is a Spirit Animal?
Spirit animals are characterized as guides, teachers, or messengers that represent different things based on the culture of origin.
In Western culture, they are seen as the animal which represents your soul.
In Eastern (Chinese) culture, as well as native culture, spirit animals are said to be your guide through life, helping to make the right decisions in the face of adversity.
Spirit animals are additionally thought to help protect an individual while on a difficult journey.
How to Find Your Spirit Animal
1. Learn About Spirit Animals in Your Lineage
If your ancestor felt a kindred spirit with a wolf, then it is likely that you too will feel comfortable and aided by wolves. In the same way, if your mother or father feels led by a hawk, you may feel the same thing.
Ancestorial animal spirits are not guaranteed, however. So, take the time to evaluate all options instead of just choosing the same animal spirit as your forefathers.
2. Think About Your Animal Connections
What animal do you feel most comfortable around? Consider all your past interactions with animals and the outcomes. If there is one experience that sticks out in your mind, then this animal could possibly be your spirit animal.
3. Write Down Your Dreams
Most people report that their spirit animals first visit them in dreams. Start paying attention to your dreams and take note of any animals that appear with repetition. You may also want to write down your dreams if you tend to forget yours easily.
4. Journal/Meditate
Journaling is a process of letting your thoughts flow freely into writing. Grab a paper and pen and let your mind wander. If an animal appears to you while journaling, there is a chance it is your spirit animal.
If you don’t enjoy journaling, you can also meditate and see what animal comes to mind.
5. Take a Quiz to Learn Your Spirit Animal
One of the easier methods of finding your spirit animal is by taking a quiz. There are many of them available and it can really help you narrow down which spirit animal is yours.
What To Do When You See Your Spirit Animal
When you see your spirit animal, know that they have come forward to guide you. If you can, follow your spirit animal. They may have something to show you.
In some cases, it is not possible or healthy to follow your spirit animal. When this is the case, simply sit back and observe your spirit animal, they have probably come to you with a message.
Think of your problem the way your spirit animal would think of it—this is likely an action you should take.
After your encounter with your spirit animal, it is important to set aside time for meditation. Opening your mind will help you to be receptive to any additional messages your spirit animal may have for you.
Spirit Animals by Birthday
In many cultures, spirit animals are thought to be assigned at birth based on the stars you were born under. So, if you are searching for your spirit animal, a good place to start will be your birthday.
The animal you were assigned at birth will vary based on your culture and the Zodiac calendar you choose to follow. Some birth animal zodiacs are assigned by birthday, while others are assigned by birth year.
Zodiac and Birth Animal Totems
Western Zodiac Spirit Animals
Aries: Ram
Birthday: March 21 to April 19
The Ram is a fire sign. Those who are born under the Ram tend to enjoy adventure and have lots of courage just like a mountain climbing ram.
Taurus: Bull
Birthday: April 20 to May 20
The Bull is an earth sign. People born under the bull are known to be just as stubborn as a bull but also may be clumsy at times.
Gemini: The Phoenix
Birthday: May 21 to June 20
Gemini originally symbolized twins but is now associated with the Phoenix. Individuals born under the Phoenix are clever and smart and capable of amazing transformations.
Cancer: The Crab
Birthday: June 21 to July 22
Cancer is a water sign. True to their namesake, those who are born under Cancer are very emotional and enjoy hiding from any conflict.
Leo: The Lion
Birthday: July 23 to August 22
Leo is a fire sign. Those born under Leo are known to be prideful but also cuddly and loving like a cat. In addition, Leos are extremely loyal in relationships.
Virgo: Virgin
Birthday: August 23 to September 22
Virgo is an earth sign, and for a good reason. Virgos are not represented by any single animal, but rather by young animals as a whole. If you are a Virgo, you’ll have to employ alternative processes to discover your one spirit animal.
Libra: Scaled Animals
Birthday: September 23 to October 22
Libra is an air sign, and like Virgo, there is no specific animal assigned to them as a spirit animal. Instead, Libra’s are said to be represented by any animal with scales, such as a dragon or fish.
Scorpio: Scorpion
Birthday: October 23 to November 2021
Scorpio is a water sign even though most scorpions avoid water. Those born under Scorpio are known to be skittish, but also very observant—able to tell immediately when something is wrong.
Sagittarius: Centaur
Birthday: November 22 to December 21
Sagittarius is a fire sign, and it is unique because it is represented by a mythical creature. Like a centaur, those who are born under Sagittarius like their independence and want to devote their lives to finding the truth. Many Sagittarius’ report that horses are their spirit animal.
Capricorn: Sea Goat
Birthday: December 22 to January 19
Capricorn is an earth sign, even though it was originally referred to as a sea goat. Since sea goats don’t exist, many Capricorns turn to regular goats as their spirit animals.
Aquarius: Water Creatures
Birthday: January 20 to February 18
Aquarius is a water sign that doesn’t relate to a specific animal. Rather, Aquarius refers to any animal that can be found in water. Those who are born under Aquarius will need to do further investigation to narrow down their spirit animal.
Pisces: Fish
Birthday: February 19 to March 20
Pisces is a water sign which represents the fish. Individuals who are born under Pisces are often diligent in their search for meaning and can see beauty in the smallest things.
Spirit Animals of the Chinese Zodiac
Rat
Birth Years: 1912, 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020
If you are born during the year of the rat, it means that you are clever, cunning, and resourceful. Those born in the year of the rat tend to be talkative and prefer to discuss their problems with others to solve them.
Ox
Birth Years: 1913, 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021
Individuals born during the year of the Ox are strong-willed and strong-witted. They like to work hard, but only at their own pace. In addition, they tend to be more serious than other signs.
Tiger
Birth Years: 1914, 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022
The people born in the year of the tiger are fast, courageous, and ready to jump at any opportunity. Unfortunately, this often ends with them jumping on the wrong opportunities.
Rabbit
Birth Years: 1915, 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023
Those born in the year of the rabbit will often share many characteristics with their spirit animal. They will be skittish and may hide from conflict.
Dragon
Birth Years: 1916, 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024
The years of the dragon are revered in Chinese history. Known for their posterity, those born under the year of the dragon are known to be natural leaders who always know exactly what others around them need.
Snake
Birth Years: 1917, 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, 2025, 2037
If you think of a snake, then you know what to expect from those born during one of the snake years. These individuals tend to be sexy, charming, and mysterious. Just be cautious as they can also be deceitful.
Horse
Birth Years: 1918, 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014, 2026
The people born in the year of the horse tend to have a kinship with these animals. They love their freedom, but they are also cautious, especially when it comes to the road less traveled.
Sheep
Birth Years: 1919, 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015, 2027, 2039, 2051
Individuals born in the year of the sheep will feel more tied to nature than the other Chinese zodiac signs. They also tend to prefer routines and patterns as opposed to new adventures.
Monkey
Birth Years: 1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016, 2028
The years of the monkey produce individuals who are charming and adventurous, but often hypocritical. It can be difficult to keep up with an individual born in one of these years, but they are often great leaders and organizers.
Rooster
Birth Years: 1921, 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017, 2029
Like their namesake, those born in the year of the rooster are ready to go when the sun rises. They also tend to be adventurous and vocal about their options. It’s hard to catch up with a rooster though as they are always traveling.
Dog
Birth Years: 1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018, 2030
People who are born in the year of the dog tend to be just as loyal as man’s best friend. They are also honest and enjoy helping others.
Pig
Birth Years: 1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019, 2031, 2043
If you were born in the year of the Pig, then you can see the bright side of even the dirtiest situations. Those born in the year of the pig also love jokes and prefer to live in the countryside.
Native American Zodiac and Spirit Animals
Otter Totem
Birthday: January 20 to February 18
Otters are known for being smart, inquisitive, and able to problem-solve with ease. Those born under the Otter Totem will be the same and will likely be very creative individuals.
Wolf Totem
Birthday: February 19 to March 20
The wolf totem is one of the most revered as they are said to feel emotions deeper than any other animal—which is why they howl at the moon. Individuals born under the wolf tend to like to be alone, but they are also compassionate.
Falcon Totem
Birthday: March 21 to April 19
The falcon totem is known to bring forth individuals who are swift and all-knowing. These individuals enjoy pursuing goals and leading teams to success.
Beaver Totem
Birthday: April 20 to May 20
The bever totem is known for being the go-getter of the spirit animal world. With natural business sense, anyone born under the beaver totem will work with efficiency and kindness.
Deer Totem
Birthday: May 21 to June 20
Those born under the deer totem will live life the same way as their namesake. So, these individuals are gentle, quiet, and reserved.
Woodpecker Totem
Birthday: June 21 to July 21
Woodpeckers are known to be the natural nurturers of the spirit animal world, and anyone born under this totem will do the same. Woodpeckers are also devoted to their partners and committed to their work.
Salmon Totem
Birthday: July 22 to August 21
Those born in the days of the salmon totem are known for being energetic and intuitive. They also tend to be successful in their personal and business lives thanks to their goal orientation.
Bear Totem
Birthday: August 22 to September 21
Individuals born under the bear totem are shy and loving and prefer a lifestyle of solace. At the same time, they are patient and generous and make great friends with those who are willing to respect their boundaries.
Raven Totem
Birthday: September 22 to October 22
The raven totem tends to breed those who are attracted to money, leading them to live a business-savvy lifestyle. Other than being money-oriented, these individuals are also cautious and romantic.
Snake Totem
Birthday: October 23 to November 22
According to Native American beliefs, if you are born under the snake totem, you are an individual who can molt your skin and become someone else when necessary.
Also, individuals born under the snake totem are also creative and possess a good sense of humor.
Owl Totem
Birthday: November 23 to December 21
In nature, owls are known to be silent creatures that only live during the night. Similarly, those born under this totem live tend to be the “night owls” and enjoy their time after dark. Also, they are known to be artistic and smart.
Snow Goose Totem
Birthday: December 22 to January 19
Snow geese are beautiful and majestic creatures in Native American folklore. They tend to represent an individual who is determined. People born under the snow goose totem also tend to be successful and expressive.
Celtic Zodiac and Spirit Animals
Stag
Birthday: December 24 to January 20
Like in the famous Harry Potter movies, those born under the stag are known to be noble, serious, and patient. They are also successful and known to be there when you need them most.
Cat
Birthday: January 21 to February 17
The Celtic cats have long been revered for their cunning and speed. Those born under this spirit animal tend to be the same as well as observant and good problem solvers.
Snake
Birthday: February 18 to March 17
Snakes hold an important role in Celtic lore. In fact, anyone born under the snake will be an excellent communicator as well as a master of song. Individuals born during this time also tend to be able to adapt to any conditions necessary to survive.
Fox
Birthday: March 18 to April 18
Individuals born under the fox are likely to be clever and always on the lookout for their next adventure. Be cautious, however, because those born under the Celtic fox also tend to be class clowns.
Bull
Birthday: April 15 to May 12
Like the western Zodiac, the Celtic bull is known for being stubborn, yet stable in everything they do. They are also great protectors and can see through any lie.
Seahorse
Birthday: May 13 to June 9
Similar to the western water signs, the Seahorse will feel comfortable in the water, or any other medium that moves with fluidity. Those born under the seahorse are great at managing finances as well as other people.
Wren
Birthday: June 10 to July 7
A wren is a large and powerful bird common in Celtic folklore. Individuals born under the wren see the positive in every situation and are often very witty in conversations.
Horse
Birthday: July 8 to August 4
In the Celtic Zodiac, horses are known as a very powerful spirit animal that can compete with any other. They also tend to have excellent style and are capable of leading others with ease.
Fish
Birthday: August 5 to September 1
The fish in Celtic astrology is very similar to the salmon of Native American legends and is known to be intuitive and artistic. They may also experience deep emotions that they use to guide their path in life.
Swan
Birthday: September 2 to September 29
Individuals born under the Celtic Swan are known for their beauty and uniqueness. Like a swan in real life though, keep your distance because swans have very strict boundaries.
Butterfly
Birthday: September 30 to October 27
The phrase social butterfly is often thought of as originating from Celtic mythology. Individuals born under this sign love conversing with others, but be careful, because they are also the wanderers of the Celtic Zodiac.
Wolf
Birthday: October 28 to November 24
People who are born under the wolf are strong, brave, and ready to face anything that comes their way. These individuals are also known to get into fights, however, because it is very difficult to get them to let things go.
Hawk
Birthday: November 25 to December 23
In Celtic traditions, the hawk is known for its sharp eye and attention to detail. Those born under the hawk have driven, and a mind driven by problem-solving. In addition, they are known for being honest with their friends no matter what the cost.