THE ORIGIN OF FULL MOON NAMES
Historically, some Native Americans who lived in the area that is now the United States kept track of the seasons by giving a distinctive name to each recurring full Moon. (This name was applied to the entire month in which it occurred.) The names were used by various tribes and/or by colonial Americans, who also brought their own traditions.
Meanings of Full Moon Names
JANUARY'S full Moon was called the Wolf Moon because wolves were more often heard at this time.
FEBRUARY'S full Moon was called the Snow Moon because it was a time of heavy snow. It was also called the Hunger Moon because hunting was difficult and hunger often resulted.
MARCH'S full Moon was called the Worm Moon because, as the weather warmed, wormlike insect larvae emerged from the bark of trees, and other winter homes.
APRIL'S full Moon was called the Pink Moon because it heralded the appearance of the moss pink, or wild ground phlox—one of the first spring flowers.
MAY'S full Moon was called the Flower Moon because blossoms were abundant everywhere at this time.
JUNE'S full Moon was called the Strawberry Moon because it appeared when the strawberry harvest took place.
JULY'S full Moon was called the Buck Moon; it arrived when a male deer's antlers were in full growth mode.
AUGUST'S full Moon was called the Sturgeon Moon because this large fish, which is found in the Great Lakes and Lake Champlain, was caught easily at this time.
SEPTEMBER'S full Moon was called the Corn Moon because this was the time to harvest corn.
The Harvest Moon is the full Moon that occurs closest to the autumnal equinox. It can occur in either September or October. Around this time, the Moon rises only about 30 minutes later each night, providing extra light after sunset for harvesting.
OCTOBER'S full Moon was called the Hunter's Moon because this was the time to hunt in preparation for winter.
NOVEMBER'S full Moon was called the Beaver Moon because it was the time when beavers finished preparations for winter and retreated to their lodges.
DECEMBER'S full Moon was called the Cold Moon. It was also called the Long Nights Moon because nights at this time of year were the longest.
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