The term terrapin used to mean any aquatic turtle, but that changed in the last third of the 20th century. Now the term is used to primarily describe the diamondback terrapin, a particular kind of turtle in the Emydidae family. These turtles live in salty marshes and coastal waters from New England to Mexico. Females are larger than males—they average a length of seven inches compared to the male’s four to five.
Chesapeake diamond-backed terrapins have beautiful concentric diamond-shaped rings on their shells. They officially became Maryland’s state reptile and the University of Maryland’s mascot in 1994, although the college had used the terrapin’s image since 1933.
Due to historic over-harvesting, their numbers dropped dangerously. “Effective July 1, 2007, it is unlawful to take or possess them for commercial purposes (Chapters 117 & 118, Acts of 2007; Code Natural Resources Article, sec. 4-902).”
Reflection Question:
The University of Maryland’s “Fear the Turtle” slogan on merchandise generates conversation funds for diamond-backed terrapins. What do you think of this slogan—do you fear the turtle?
Would you consider eating a terrapin? There are local cookbooks. https://dwr.virginia.gov/blog/from-delicacy-to-decline-a-tale-of-the-diamond-backed-terrapin/
Reference:
Diamondback Terrapin, Maryland State Reptile. (n.d.). https://msa.maryland.gov/msa/mdmanual/01glance/symbols/html/reptile.html