Nebraskaland

54 Nebraskaland • January-February 2025 MIXED BAG The night sky has long been a source of wonder and inspiration, with lunar cycles observed and celebrated by cultures across the world. In North America, full moon names offer fascinating glimpses into the cultural traditions, folklore and natural rhythms that shaped Native American and European American views of the cosmos. Each name reflects the unique characteristics and significance of its respective lunar cycle, serving as a reminder of the interconnectedness between the celestial realm and the terrestrial world. January The Wolf Moon January's full moon is often dubbed the Wolf Moon. According to Native American and European folklore, wolves were believed to howl more frequently during this time of the year, perhaps due to hunger or heightened activity during the winter months. The moon's eerie glow on the wintry landscape highlights the harshness of the January wilderness. February The Snow Moon As winter's grip tightens and snow blankets the land, February's full moon is aptly named the Snow Moon, as known by various Indigenous peoples across North America. In some traditions, it's also called the Hunger Moon, as food supplies may run low during this harsh month, intensifying the struggle for survival. March The Worm Moon As temperatures begin to rise and the earth thaws, March's full moon heralds the arrival of spring. Named the Worm Moon by Native Americans, this designation refers to the emergence of earthworms from the thawing soil, signaling the onset of spring planting and the renewal of life. It's a time of awakening and rejuvenation after the dormancy of winter. April The Pink Moon Contrary to its name, April's full moon doesn't actually appear pink. Instead, the Pink Moon derives its name from the vibrant pink phlox flowers that bloom around this time of year in North America. This name is attributed to Native Americans, who marked the arrival of spring by the blooming of these flowers that paint the landscape with hues of pink and purple. May The Flower Moon May's full moon brings with it the beauty and fragrance of blooming flowers, earning it the moniker of the Flower Moon. As spring reaches its peak and flora bursts forth in a riot of colors, this name encapsulates the abundance and fertility of the season. It's a time of celebration and growth, as nature flourishes in full splendor. June The Strawberry Moon In June, as summer approaches, the luscious red berries of the strawberry plant ripen, marking the onset of the strawberry harvest season. Hence, June's full moon is known as the Strawberry Moon, a name attributed to Native Americans who used it as a cue for gathering these delectable fruits. It's a time of sweetness and abundance, as the earth yields its bounty. July The Buck Moon As summer reaches its peak and the antlers of male deer begin to grow, July's full moon is aptly named the Buck Moon. This designation originated from Native Americans who observed the growth of male deer antlers during this time of year. It symbolizes strength, virility and the cycle of life as nature reaches its apex. FULL MOON NAMES By Monica Macoubrie, Wildlife Education Specialist

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