Mahkoonsa Kiilhswa ‘Young Black Bear Moon’ is one of two lunar months named for mahkwa ‘American black bear (Ursus americanus).’ To the best of our knowledge, this month is associated with the emergence of American black bear cubs from their dens around this time. The start of Mahkoonsa Kiilhswa marks Weehki-kihkatwe ‘the Miami Lunar New Year.’  During some years, the maple sugaring season begins during Mahkoonsa Kiilhswa; in general trees and animals begin the slow process of waking up as peepoonki ‘winter’ ends.

You can learn more about American black bears by visiting Wikipedia. 

---