The full moon in May is often referred to as the Milk Moon because at this time of year cows and sheep produce lots of rich milk full of vitamins. The name derives from an Old English phrase meaning “three-milkings-month” in modern English because cows were milked three times a day during this time of year.

This full moon was known as the Full Flower Moon by Native Americans because this is the time of year when spring flowers appear in abundance.

It has also been dubbed the Corn Planting Moon, Corn Moon, Hare's Moon, and Mother's Moon with its proximity to Mother's Day.

Buddhists refer to the May full moon as Buddha Poornima, while Hindus call it Vesak Poya.

Milk Moon rising over Boise Ridge. Photo by Michael Hofferber © 2020 All rights reserved.