2020 is the Year of the Rat according to Chinese zodiac. This is a Year of Metal Rat, starting from the 2020 Chinese New Year on Jan. 25 and lasting to 2021 Lunar New Year’s Eve on Feb. 11.

Rat is the first in the 12-year cycle of Chinese zodiac. The Years of the Rat include 1912, 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020, 2032...

Search for your birth zodiac and check to see if it is compatible with the Rat. I was born in 1956, therefore I am the Monkey and believe I am in for a good year ahead!

Though people consider the rat not adorable, and it even makes its way into derogatory languages, it ranks first on the Chinese zodiac signs. It has characteristics of an animal with spirit, wit, alertness, delicacy, flexibility and vitality.

Women born in a Rat year are pretty, smart, and lovely. They have quick minds and dexterous hands, and are able to learn anything. They are always considerate of their families and friends.  They love keeping things organised and place great value on the family. Outside of home, they’re also someone with a sense of responsibility and ability.

Famous Women Born in the Year of the Rat include:

- Charlotte Bronte

- Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother

- Mary Tyler Moore

- Olivia Newton John

- Julia Louis-Dreyfus

- Tilda Swinton