Full Beaver Moon

In November, the full Moon is called the Beaver Moon. This Moon follows October’s Full Hunter’s Moon. 

Why Is It Called the Beaver Moon? 

This is the time of year when beavers begin to take shelter in their lodges, having laid up sufficient stores of food for the long winter ahead. During the time of the fur trade in North America, it was also the season to trap beavers for their thick, winter-ready pelts. 

The November Moon is also known as the Freezing Moon by the Anishinaabe people and the Frost Moon by the Cree, since the colder temperatures mean that frost begins to regularly appear on grass and trees in the early morning in some areas. The Tlingit name Digging (or Scratching) Moon brings to mind woodland animals foraging for nuts and other food among the fallen leaves, and also refers to bears digging their winter dens.

When to See the Beaver Moon

This year, the full Beaver Moon will reach peak illumination on Monday, November 27, at 4:16 A.M. Eastern Time. After sunset on Sunday, November 26, look toward the sky to spot the full shining Moon rise!

Learn more about the Moon names for every month, including your birthday month!