What is a Buck Moon? 🌙 

During the month of July, male deer (bucks) have new antlers pushing out of their foreheads with coatings of velvety fur

Deer lose their antlers yearly and each part of the antler grows from time to time. In the mid-summer, it reaches its full size with pointed tips and is considered to be a significant part of the annual cycle

Therefore, the Native American Algonquin people from the east of the Mississippi River (a region where deer were widespread) coined the term 'Buck Moon'

Other names

• Many Native American tribes call it the Full Thunder Moon and Halfway Summer Moondue to the frequent thunderstorms and summer fall during this time
• July full moon is also named after animals. For example, it is called the Feather Molting Moon(Cree) because animals molt (shed their feathers, hair, etc. for regrowth) during this time.
• It is also called  Salmon Moon , as salmons return to the waterways in Pacific Northwest and are ready to be harvested during this time
• Other July moon names by different tribes include the Berry Moon, Raspberry, Moon When the Chokecherries are Ripe (Dakota), Month of the Ripe Corn Moon, and Full hay Moon
• Celtic groups refer to it as the Herb Moon,  Wyrt Moon ('wyrt' means herbs), Claiming Moon, and Mead Moon. July is the ideal time to gather herbs which are then dried to make spices and remedies.
• Buddhists call it  Guru Full Moon

What Is the Buck Moon Spiritual Meaning?

In some spiritual beliefs and practices, the buck moon is often considered a time of growth, renewal, and regeneration, as bucks shed their antlers each year and grow new ones. This process is seen as a metaphor for personal growth and transformation, as we must also shed old patterns and beliefs to grow and evolve

Because the buck moon is also believed to symbolize a period of increased change and self-discovery, this full moon may inspire you to tap into your inner strength and intuitive wisdom, and navigate challenges with self-control and compassion. Plus, with it being Cancer Season during the full moon, this is an excellent time to reprioritize daily routines and relationships that support your need for rejuvenation and rest before Leo Season officially begins

Moon Phases of July 2024

• New Moon: July 5, 22:57 UTC
• First Quarter: July 13, 22:48 UTC
• Full Moon (Buck Moon): July 21, 10:17 UTC
• Last Quarter: July 28, 02:51 UTC