Why July’s Full Moon Is Called the Buck Moon

If you glance up at the full moon on July 10th, you’re not just moon-gazing—you’re watching the rise of the Buck Moon.

The name comes from traditional Native American and Colonial-era moon naming systems, where each full moon reflected what was happening in the natural world. And in July, something very specific happens: male deer (bucks) begin to grow new antlers.

These new antlers start as velvety, sensitive growths and harden as summer progresses. The full moon that lit up this antler-growing season became known as the Buck Moon.

It’s not the only name for July’s full moon, though. Some Algonquin tribes also called it the Thunder Moon, thanks to the frequent summer storms. Others used names like Hay Moon or Ripe Corn Moon—all tied to seasonal changes.

Today, the Buck Moon is still a favorite for skywatchers, photographers, and anyone who likes a little folklore with their astronomy. And while it won’t help you grow antlers, it might make you appreciate how much old-school nature watching shaped the calendar we still use today.