The Chinese dragon is undoubtedly the most magnificent of the Chinese zodiac animals. Distinctly different from western conceptions of dragons, their bodies are long and sinuous with considerable hair flowing about and an absence of wings. The Chinese dragon is often described as having the body parts of up to nine different animals! The year 2012, which many feared was the last year Earth would see, was fittingly the year of the Water Dragon. His fiery pearl clasped firmly in claw holds much of his power, so he must guard it carefully. All the other dragons keep trying to steal it. So rude.