Buck means a male deer.
July’s full moon is called the “Buck Moon” because this is the time of year when male deer (Bucks) grow new alters i.e. branched horns.
The name “Buck Moon” originates from Native American traditions, particularly those of the Algonquin tribes, and was later adopted by Colonial Americans and Europeans.
July is a crucial time in the annual cycle of deer. During this period, the new antlers i.e. branched horns of male deer (bucks) are in full growth mode, covered in velvety fur. These antlers are made of bone and grow rapidly during the summer months. By July, the antlers are usually at their largest, which is why this July’s full moon is associated with bucks i.e. male deer. Antlers are used by bucks during the mating seasons in the fall to compete with other males for mates. By July, the growth is in full swing, preparing the bucks for these autumnal contests.
The Native American tribes used to use these names for full moons to keep track of the seasons and the natural events occurring within them. Each month’s full moon has a unique name that signifies something relevant to that time of year. For example, the “Wolf Moon” in January, the “Strawberry Moon” in June, and the “Harvest Moon” in September.
These lunar names were not just titles, but they were a part of the cultural and survival practices of the tribes. The Buck Moon, therefore, not only indicates the season of antler growth but also marks a time for hunting preparation and understanding the lifecycle of the deer, which were an important resource for many tribes. European settlers adopted many of these names like the “Buck moon”, integrating them into their own calendars and farming schedules. This helped them to better understand and predict the natural cycles in their new environment.
For agrarian societies, the full moon names also served as a natural calendar to plan agricultural activities. July is a crucial month for growing and tending to crops, with the full moon providing extra light for evening activities.
Different tribes had various names for the July full moon. For example, some tribes referred to it as the “Thunder Moon” due to the frequent thunderstorms during this time of year or the “Hay Moon”, reflecting the Haymaking season.
Today, these names are still used and popularized by the Farmer’s Almanac and other sources. They serve as a link to historical practices and as a reminder of the natural rhymes of the earth.
The full moon in July is part of the regular lunar cycle. The moon’s phases are caused by its orbit around the Earth, which takes about 29.5 days to complete.
The Buck Moon, like other full moons, can be a spectacular sight. Observers often note its brightness and the clarity with which it illuminates the night sky, making it an ideal time for moonlit activities.
The Buck Moon is a vivid example of how human cultures have historically connected celestial events with terrestrial life, creating a rich tapestry of folklore and practical knowledge that continues to resonate today.