{"id":5394,"date":"2026-02-20T20:00:03","date_gmt":"2026-02-20T20:00:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/pe-ts.fun\/?p=5394"},"modified":"2026-02-20T20:00:03","modified_gmt":"2026-02-20T20:00:03","slug":"discover-the-10-official-state-animals-of-maryland","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/pe-ts.fun\/?p=5394","title":{"rendered":"Discover The 10 Official State Animals Of Maryland"},"content":{"rendered":"<p> <br \/>\n<\/p>\n<div data-article-body=\"true\">\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">The post <a href=\"https:\/\/a-z-animals.com\/blog\/discover-the-official-state-animals-of-maryland\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:Discover The 10 Official State Animals Of Maryland;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">Discover The 10 Official State Animals Of Maryland<\/a> appeared first on <a href=\"https:\/\/a-z-animals.com?utm_campaign=feed&amp;utm_source=rss_feed&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_content=709672\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:A-Z Animals;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">A-Z Animals<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"mb-4 text-xl font-bold md:text-2xl\">Quick Take<\/h2>\n<ul class=\"mb-4\">\n<li class=\"ml-4 list-disc\">\n<div class=\"\">\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\"><em><strong>Astrodon johnstoni <\/strong><\/em>was a massive prehistoric creature with a long neck and tail.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"ml-4 list-disc\">\n<div class=\"\">\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">The <strong>Baltimore oriole<\/strong>, adopted as the state bird in 1947, was the first official state animal of Maryland.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"ml-4 list-disc\">\n<div class=\"\">\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">The majority of <strong>calico cats<\/strong> are female.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">From the wetlands of the Chesapeake Bay to the forests farther inland, Maryland hosts an array of birds, mammals, reptiles, insects, and crustaceans. Several animals native to Maryland have been recognized as official symbols of the state. Continue reading to discover more about the 10 animals Maryland has adopted.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"mb-4 text-xl font-bold md:text-2xl\">Bird: Baltimore Oriole<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"relative mb-4\">\n<div class=\"relative\"><img alt=\"Baltimore oriole\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"960\" height=\"502\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" class=\"rounded-lg\" style=\"color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/18oD8n7nf8BLtUAFNZZRFQ--\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTUwMjtjZj13ZWJw\/https:\/\/media.zenfs.com\/en\/a_z_animals_articles_598\/e2016794689d03b3f6e3af48e2d1a214\"\/><button aria-label=\"View larger image\" class=\"group absolute bottom-0 size-full\" data-ylk=\"elm:expand;itc:1;sec:image-lightbox;slk:lightbox-open;\"><span class=\"absolute bottom-3 right-3 rounded-full bg-white p-3 opacity-100 shadow-elevation-3 transition-opacity duration-300 group-hover:block group-hover:opacity-100 md:p-[17px] lg:bottom-6 lg:right-6 lg:bg-white\/90 lg:p-5 lg:opacity-0 lg:shadow-none\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 22 22\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"size-4 lg:size-6\" width=\"22\" height=\"22\"><path d=\"M12.372.92c0-.506.41-.916.915-.916L21 0l-.004 7.712a.917.917 0 0 1-1.832 0V3.183l-6.827 6.828-1.349-1.348 6.828-6.828h-4.529a.915.915 0 0 1-.915-.915M1.835 17.816l6.828-6.828 1.349 1.349-6.829 6.827h4.529a.915.915 0 0 1 0 1.831L0 21l.004-7.713a.916.916 0 0 1 1.831 0z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/button><dialog aria-label=\"Modal Dialog\" aria-modal=\"true\" class=\"fixed bottom-0 left-0 right-0 top-0 z-4 size-full max-h-none max-w-none bg-white hidden\"\/><\/div><figcaption class=\"relative text-sm mt-1 pr-2.5\">\n<div style=\"max-height:none;overflow:visible\">\n<div>\n<p>The Baltimore oriole lives all around the United States but is particularly common in Maryland.<\/p>\n<p class=\"copyright\">\u00a9Agami Photo Agency\/Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><span>(Agami Photo Agency\/Shutterstock.com)<\/span><\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">Baltimore orioles (<em>Icterus galbula<\/em>) were designated as the official state bird of Maryland in 1947. These stunning black and orange songbirds are regular summer visitors to the Chesapeake Bay area.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">Baltimore orioles weigh no more than 1 ounce and range in length from 6 to 8 inches, with a 4-inch wingspan. Male Baltimore orioles are black with vivid orange on the breast, tail, and wing bars, while females are olive-brown to yellow, with white wing bars and a gray beak.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">Baltimore orioles are omnivores that consume fruit and insects.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"mb-4 text-xl font-bold md:text-2xl\">Dog: Chesapeake Bay Retriever<\/h2>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">The Chesapeake Bay retriever (Canis lupus familiaris) was officially recognized as the Maryland state dog in 1964. The Chesapeake Bay retriever is a water dog used to hunt and recover waterfowl in the frigid chop of Maryland\u2019s Chesapeake Bay. This dog is perfect for the job because of its strong constitution and thick coat.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">They are regarded as excellent hunting dogs and are ideal companions for energetic, experienced dog owners who can provide them with structure and plenty of activity. A male Chesapeake Bay Retriever can weigh as much as 80 pounds and stands 23 to 26 inches tall at the shoulder. A defining feature of the breed is its wavy, chocolate-colored, and smooth coat. They have bright yellow-amber eyes that pair well with their coat.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"relative mb-4\">\n<div class=\"relative\"><img alt=\"Types of Retriever Dogs\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"960\" height=\"502\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" class=\"rounded-lg\" style=\"color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/DQxMPFj3TshLzyZPLPLTcw--\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTUwMjtjZj13ZWJw\/https:\/\/media.zenfs.com\/en\/a_z_animals_articles_598\/10aa1a9a116f40d59957151586dd7878\"\/><button aria-label=\"View larger image\" class=\"group absolute bottom-0 size-full\" data-ylk=\"elm:expand;itc:1;sec:image-lightbox;slk:lightbox-open;\"><span class=\"absolute bottom-3 right-3 rounded-full bg-white p-3 opacity-100 shadow-elevation-3 transition-opacity duration-300 group-hover:block group-hover:opacity-100 md:p-[17px] lg:bottom-6 lg:right-6 lg:bg-white\/90 lg:p-5 lg:opacity-0 lg:shadow-none\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 22 22\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"size-4 lg:size-6\" width=\"22\" height=\"22\"><path d=\"M12.372.92c0-.506.41-.916.915-.916L21 0l-.004 7.712a.917.917 0 0 1-1.832 0V3.183l-6.827 6.828-1.349-1.348 6.828-6.828h-4.529a.915.915 0 0 1-.915-.915M1.835 17.816l6.828-6.828 1.349 1.349-6.829 6.827h4.529a.915.915 0 0 1 0 1.831L0 21l.004-7.713a.916.916 0 0 1 1.831 0z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/button><dialog aria-label=\"Modal Dialog\" aria-modal=\"true\" class=\"fixed bottom-0 left-0 right-0 top-0 z-4 size-full max-h-none max-w-none bg-white hidden\"\/><\/div><figcaption class=\"relative text-sm mt-1 pr-2.5\">\n<div style=\"max-height:none;overflow:visible\">\n<div>\n<p>A Chesapeake Bay Retriever is born to spend time in the water, and like the ducks they often help hunt, they have webbed feet to help them swim in the waters of the bay.<\/p>\n<p class=\"copyright\">\u00a9cindylindowphotography\/Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><span>(cindylindowphotography\/Shutterstock.com)<\/span><\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">Given their ancestry, it is not surprising that Chesapeake Bay Retrievers enjoy being in the water. Young pups exposed to water play develop into strong, powerful swimmers who use their straight or slightly curled tails as rudders. These dogs can be independent thinkers, but they are generally sociable, outgoing, and obedient.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"mb-4 text-xl font-bold md:text-2xl\">Marine Fish: Rockfish (Striped Bass)<\/h2>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">Maryland recognized the rockfish (<em>Morone saxatilis<\/em>), also known as the striped bass, as its official marine fish in 1965. This species may be found from Northern Florida to Southeast Canada, and they are commonly found along Maryland\u2019s coastline and in the Chesapeake Bay.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">The rockfish was chosen because of its immense ecological, recreational, and economic significance to the Chesapeake Bay. As a premier sport and commercial fish, it is essential to the region\u2019s culinary culture<\/p>\n<figure class=\"relative mb-4\">\n<div class=\"relative\"><img alt=\"Striped bass\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"960\" height=\"576\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" class=\"rounded-lg\" style=\"color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/gWFANG0wZBIWSX0bHwuhow--\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTU3NjtjZj13ZWJw\/https:\/\/media.zenfs.com\/en\/a_z_animals_articles_598\/6061bce2ded04ce509209ec7e220229f\"\/><button aria-label=\"View larger image\" class=\"group absolute bottom-0 size-full\" data-ylk=\"elm:expand;itc:1;sec:image-lightbox;slk:lightbox-open;\"><span class=\"absolute bottom-3 right-3 rounded-full bg-white p-3 opacity-100 shadow-elevation-3 transition-opacity duration-300 group-hover:block group-hover:opacity-100 md:p-[17px] lg:bottom-6 lg:right-6 lg:bg-white\/90 lg:p-5 lg:opacity-0 lg:shadow-none\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 22 22\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"size-4 lg:size-6\" width=\"22\" height=\"22\"><path d=\"M12.372.92c0-.506.41-.916.915-.916L21 0l-.004 7.712a.917.917 0 0 1-1.832 0V3.183l-6.827 6.828-1.349-1.348 6.828-6.828h-4.529a.915.915 0 0 1-.915-.915M1.835 17.816l6.828-6.828 1.349 1.349-6.829 6.827h4.529a.915.915 0 0 1 0 1.831L0 21l.004-7.713a.916.916 0 0 1 1.831 0z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/button><dialog aria-label=\"Modal Dialog\" aria-modal=\"true\" class=\"fixed bottom-0 left-0 right-0 top-0 z-4 size-full max-h-none max-w-none bg-white hidden\"\/><\/div><figcaption class=\"relative text-sm mt-1 pr-2.5\">\n<div style=\"max-height:none;overflow:visible\">\n<div>\n<p>The rockfish (pictured) is known for its large mouth.<\/p>\n<p class=\"copyright\">\u00a9Steve Brigman\/Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><span>(Steve Brigman\/Shutterstock.com)<\/span><\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">Rockfish are classified as\u00a0anadromous, meaning they live most of their lives in saltwater (ocean\/coastal) but migrate into freshwater rivers to spawn.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">Rockfish have wide mouths, prominent dorsal fins, a generally flat body, and several lateral stripes running the length of their silver, iridescent bodies. Their backs are often pale green, olive, steel blue, black, or brown.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"mb-4 text-xl font-bold md:text-2xl\">Insect: Baltimore Checkerspot Butterfly<\/h2>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">The Baltimore Checkerspot Butterfly (<em>Euphydryas phaeton<\/em>) was officially designated as the state insect of Maryland\u00a0in\u00a01973.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">The Baltimore checkerspot has three distinct life stages, each with a unique appearance. As a caterpillar, the Baltimore Checkerspot has a black head and body with spine-like protrusions placed along the alternating bands of black and orange lines.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"relative mb-4\">\n<div class=\"relative\"><img alt=\"&lt;p&gt;A Baltimore Checkerspot caterpillar is resting on a green leaf.&lt;\/p&gt;&lt;p class=&quot;copyright&quot;&gt;\u00a9Paul Reeves Photography\/Shutterstock.com&lt;\/p&gt;\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"960\" height=\"641\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" class=\"rounded-lg\" style=\"color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/v8ASW.u6TwpXMQ612NSwvQ--\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTY0MTtjZj13ZWJw\/https:\/\/media.zenfs.com\/en\/a_z_animals_articles_598\/4f15f0ff3cf9c263f0d4de1375e1d284\"\/><button aria-label=\"View larger image\" class=\"group absolute bottom-0 size-full\" data-ylk=\"elm:expand;itc:1;sec:image-lightbox;slk:lightbox-open;\"><span class=\"absolute bottom-3 right-3 rounded-full bg-white p-3 opacity-100 shadow-elevation-3 transition-opacity duration-300 group-hover:block group-hover:opacity-100 md:p-[17px] lg:bottom-6 lg:right-6 lg:bg-white\/90 lg:p-5 lg:opacity-0 lg:shadow-none\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 22 22\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"size-4 lg:size-6\" width=\"22\" height=\"22\"><path d=\"M12.372.92c0-.506.41-.916.915-.916L21 0l-.004 7.712a.917.917 0 0 1-1.832 0V3.183l-6.827 6.828-1.349-1.348 6.828-6.828h-4.529a.915.915 0 0 1-.915-.915M1.835 17.816l6.828-6.828 1.349 1.349-6.829 6.827h4.529a.915.915 0 0 1 0 1.831L0 21l.004-7.713a.916.916 0 0 1 1.831 0z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/button><dialog aria-label=\"Modal Dialog\" aria-modal=\"true\" class=\"fixed bottom-0 left-0 right-0 top-0 z-4 size-full max-h-none max-w-none bg-white hidden\"\/><\/div><figcaption class=\"relative text-sm mt-1 pr-2.5\">\n<div style=\"max-height:none;overflow:visible\">\n<div>\n<p>A Baltimore Checkerspot caterpillar is resting on a green leaf.<\/p>\n<p class=\"copyright\">\u00a9Paul Reeves Photography\/Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><span>(Paul Reeves Photography\/Shutterstock.com)<\/span><\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.butterflyidentification.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/Baltimore-Checkerspot-Chrysalis.webp\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:chrysalis;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">chrysalis<\/a> of the Baltimore checkerspot is distinctively white with striking orange and black markings, often resembling a bird dropping to deter predators. Formed in late spring after caterpillars hibernate, these chrysalises hang from host plants, maturing into adults in about 10\u201314 days.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">The adult Baltimore checkerspot butterfly has four wings, each featuring two broad, banded borders: an inner border with white checkers and an outer border with orange to yellowish-orange checkers. The wings are black with orange spots.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"relative mb-4\">\n<div class=\"relative\"><img alt=\"This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is shutterstock_1436136812-1024x683.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"960\" height=\"641\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" class=\"rounded-lg\" style=\"color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/kQa.Xe6h2ZLUS1ImTYLFGQ--\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTY0MTtjZj13ZWJw\/https:\/\/media.zenfs.com\/en\/a_z_animals_articles_598\/a72ba360a9d808ed8514bdcdf1ea3deb\"\/><button aria-label=\"View larger image\" class=\"group absolute bottom-0 size-full\" data-ylk=\"elm:expand;itc:1;sec:image-lightbox;slk:lightbox-open;\"><span class=\"absolute bottom-3 right-3 rounded-full bg-white p-3 opacity-100 shadow-elevation-3 transition-opacity duration-300 group-hover:block group-hover:opacity-100 md:p-[17px] lg:bottom-6 lg:right-6 lg:bg-white\/90 lg:p-5 lg:opacity-0 lg:shadow-none\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 22 22\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"size-4 lg:size-6\" width=\"22\" height=\"22\"><path d=\"M12.372.92c0-.506.41-.916.915-.916L21 0l-.004 7.712a.917.917 0 0 1-1.832 0V3.183l-6.827 6.828-1.349-1.348 6.828-6.828h-4.529a.915.915 0 0 1-.915-.915M1.835 17.816l6.828-6.828 1.349 1.349-6.829 6.827h4.529a.915.915 0 0 1 0 1.831L0 21l.004-7.713a.916.916 0 0 1 1.831 0z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/button><dialog aria-label=\"Modal Dialog\" aria-modal=\"true\" class=\"fixed bottom-0 left-0 right-0 top-0 z-4 size-full max-h-none max-w-none bg-white hidden\"\/><\/div><figcaption class=\"relative text-sm mt-1 pr-2.5\">\n<p>The black, orange, and white Baltimore checkerspot butterfly is found in the Chesapeake Bay area and is common throughout the state.<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 class=\"mb-4 text-xl font-bold md:text-2xl\">Crustacean: Blue Crab<\/h2>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">The\u00a0Maryland Blue Crab\u00a0(<em>Callinectes sapidus<\/em>) was officially designated the state crustacean in\u00a01989. The blue crab is a swimming crustacean known for its vivid blue claws and emerald-hued shell. It is one of the most easily recognized species in Maryland and the Chesapeake Bay.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"relative mb-4\">\n<div class=\"relative\"><img alt=\"Blue crab under water walking on sandy bottom\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"960\" height=\"720\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" class=\"rounded-lg\" style=\"color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/9xATE8e5IZq4XKqIUi05rA--\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTcyMDtjZj13ZWJw\/https:\/\/media.zenfs.com\/en\/a_z_animals_articles_598\/8b1864c1769ff1278d3af50762757ffb\"\/><button aria-label=\"View larger image\" class=\"group absolute bottom-0 size-full\" data-ylk=\"elm:expand;itc:1;sec:image-lightbox;slk:lightbox-open;\"><span class=\"absolute bottom-3 right-3 rounded-full bg-white p-3 opacity-100 shadow-elevation-3 transition-opacity duration-300 group-hover:block group-hover:opacity-100 md:p-[17px] lg:bottom-6 lg:right-6 lg:bg-white\/90 lg:p-5 lg:opacity-0 lg:shadow-none\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 22 22\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"size-4 lg:size-6\" width=\"22\" height=\"22\"><path d=\"M12.372.92c0-.506.41-.916.915-.916L21 0l-.004 7.712a.917.917 0 0 1-1.832 0V3.183l-6.827 6.828-1.349-1.348 6.828-6.828h-4.529a.915.915 0 0 1-.915-.915M1.835 17.816l6.828-6.828 1.349 1.349-6.829 6.827h4.529a.915.915 0 0 1 0 1.831L0 21l.004-7.713a.916.916 0 0 1 1.831 0z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/button><dialog aria-label=\"Modal Dialog\" aria-modal=\"true\" class=\"fixed bottom-0 left-0 right-0 top-0 z-4 size-full max-h-none max-w-none bg-white hidden\"\/><\/div><figcaption class=\"relative text-sm mt-1 pr-2.5\">\n<div style=\"max-height:none;overflow:visible\">\n<div>\n<p>The blue crab is found along the coast of Maryland.<\/p>\n<p class=\"copyright\">\u00a9Jen Helton\/Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><span>(Jen Helton\/Shutterstock.com)<\/span><\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">The carapace (shell) of the blue crab can measure up to nine inches across and ranges in color from blue to olive green. Each side of the carapace bears nine marginal teeth, the ninth of which is a strong spine. Blue crabs have paddle-shaped back legs for swimming and three pairs of walking legs.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"mb-4 text-xl font-bold md:text-2xl\">Reptile: Diamondback Terrapin<\/h2>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">The Diamondback Terrapin (<em>Malaclemys terrapin<\/em>) was officially designated as the Maryland state reptile in\u00a01994<\/p>\n<figure class=\"relative mb-4\">\n<div class=\"relative\"><img alt=\"Diamondback Terrapin\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"960\" height=\"576\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" class=\"rounded-lg\" style=\"color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/lo56K129YamtIc6z1qAHzw--\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTU3NjtjZj13ZWJw\/https:\/\/media.zenfs.com\/en\/a_z_animals_articles_598\/06163d89159000f368d06e04ba806b72\"\/><button aria-label=\"View larger image\" class=\"group absolute bottom-0 size-full\" data-ylk=\"elm:expand;itc:1;sec:image-lightbox;slk:lightbox-open;\"><span class=\"absolute bottom-3 right-3 rounded-full bg-white p-3 opacity-100 shadow-elevation-3 transition-opacity duration-300 group-hover:block group-hover:opacity-100 md:p-[17px] lg:bottom-6 lg:right-6 lg:bg-white\/90 lg:p-5 lg:opacity-0 lg:shadow-none\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 22 22\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"size-4 lg:size-6\" width=\"22\" height=\"22\"><path d=\"M12.372.92c0-.506.41-.916.915-.916L21 0l-.004 7.712a.917.917 0 0 1-1.832 0V3.183l-6.827 6.828-1.349-1.348 6.828-6.828h-4.529a.915.915 0 0 1-.915-.915M1.835 17.816l6.828-6.828 1.349 1.349-6.829 6.827h4.529a.915.915 0 0 1 0 1.831L0 21l.004-7.713a.916.916 0 0 1 1.831 0z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/button><dialog aria-label=\"Modal Dialog\" aria-modal=\"true\" class=\"fixed bottom-0 left-0 right-0 top-0 z-4 size-full max-h-none max-w-none bg-white hidden\"\/><\/div><figcaption class=\"relative text-sm mt-1 pr-2.5\">\n<div style=\"max-height:none;overflow:visible\">\n<div>\n<p>While mollusks like clams, snails, and mussels make up the majority of terrapins\u2019 diets, they will also consume fish, worms, insects, and some species of crustaceans.<\/p>\n<p class=\"copyright\">\u00a9iStock.com\/JasonOndreicka<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><span>(iStock.com\/JasonOndreicka)<\/span><\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">The diamondback terrapin is an aquatic turtle with a shell covered in distinctive diamond-shaped rings. It is found in and near the brackish tidal waters of the Chesapeake Bay, including rivers and marshes.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">Thediamondback turtle is the only turtle species in North America that lives exclusively in brackish water. In May, diamondback terrapins typically mate in the water at night. Females visit beaches after mating, where they create nests in the sand. They lay around 15 eggs that are pinkish-white in color.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">The diamondback terrapin\u2019s carapace, or shell, can range in color from brownish or greenish to gray or nearly black. Black patches or stripes cover their scaly, gray, or white skin. The rings inside the plates that make up the carapace can be a different color from the rest of the shell and are shaped like concentric diamonds.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"mb-4 text-xl font-bold md:text-2xl\">Fossil Shell: Ecphora Gardnerae <strong>Gardnerae<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\"><em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/search?q=Ecphora+gardnerae+gardnerae&amp;client=safari&amp;hs=kMNp&amp;sca_esv=babc3dbce6714cb9&amp;rls=en&amp;biw=1039&amp;bih=663&amp;ei=oQCWacC-CKLSp84PzZ6i0AE&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjnh6r10eOSAxVF3skDHdhjB-0QgK4QegQIARAB&amp;uact=5&amp;oq=when+was+Ecphora+Gardnerae+made+maryland%27s+official+%3F&amp;gs_lp=Egxnd3Mtd2l6LXNlcnAiNXdoZW4gd2FzIEVjcGhvcmEgR2FyZG5lcmFlIG1hZGUgbWFyeWxhbmQncyBvZmZpY2lhbCA_MggQIRigARjDBEj0ClAAWMcEcAB4AJABAJgBjQGgAYUCqgEDMC4yuAEDyAEA-AEC-AEBmAICoAKaAsICChAhGKABGMMEGAqYAwCSBwMwLjKgB6EGsgcDMC4yuAeaAsIHBTAuMS4xyAcHgAgA&amp;sclient=gws-wiz-serp\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:Ecphora gardnerae gardnerae;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">Ecphora gardnerae gardnerae<\/a><\/em>\u00a0(an extinct Miocene snail) was officially designated as the state fossil shell of Maryland on\u00a0October 1, 1994<\/p>\n<figure class=\"relative mb-4\">\n<div class=\"relative\"><img alt=\"Ecphora\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"619\" height=\"768\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" class=\"rounded-lg\" style=\"color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/CBYQYZP.qJ1D4KkPRZs2TA--\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTExOTE7Y2Y9d2VicA--\/https:\/\/media.zenfs.com\/en\/a_z_animals_articles_598\/ffdf608ba8fb677ca3d5b7d8d215a43f\"\/><\/div><figcaption class=\"relative text-sm mt-1 pr-2.5\">\n<div style=\"max-height:none;overflow:visible\">\n<div>\n<p>Ecphora is an extinct predatory marine gastropod mollusk from the Miocene period.<\/p>\n<p class=\"copyright\">\u00a9Ecphora \/ public domain \u2013 <a href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Ecphora_gardnerae.jpg\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:Original;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">Original<\/a> \/ <a href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Ecphora_gardnerae.jpg\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:License;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">License<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><span>(Ecphora \/ public domain)<\/span><\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">Around the conclusion of the Miocene era, some 5 million years ago, the <em>Ecphora<\/em> lived in the tidal seas off the East Coast of modern-day Maryland, which was submerged during that time under the Salisbury Embayment. When the ocean was higher and warmer, a wider range of marine life, including crocodiles, sharks, and whales, likely lived in the area. <em>Ecphora <\/em>specimens that were buried in silt by retreating waves have been found on cliffs throughout Maryland.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"mb-4 text-xl font-bold md:text-2xl\">Dinosaur:\u00a0<em>Astrodon johnstoni<\/em><\/h2>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\"><em>Astrodon johnstoni<\/em>\u00a0was officially designated as the state dinosaur of Maryland in 1998.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"relative mb-4\">\n<div class=\"relative\"><img alt=\"Astrodon\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"960\" height=\"463\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" class=\"rounded-lg\" style=\"color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/xarmzm0sf5AKy4TrnqNStg--\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTQ2MztjZj13ZWJw\/https:\/\/media.zenfs.com\/en\/a_z_animals_articles_598\/d9e1c0424055d2dbd5acc1d53f9d6ef7\"\/><button aria-label=\"View larger image\" class=\"group absolute bottom-0 size-full\" data-ylk=\"elm:expand;itc:1;sec:image-lightbox;slk:lightbox-open;\"><span class=\"absolute bottom-3 right-3 rounded-full bg-white p-3 opacity-100 shadow-elevation-3 transition-opacity duration-300 group-hover:block group-hover:opacity-100 md:p-[17px] lg:bottom-6 lg:right-6 lg:bg-white\/90 lg:p-5 lg:opacity-0 lg:shadow-none\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 22 22\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"size-4 lg:size-6\" width=\"22\" height=\"22\"><path d=\"M12.372.92c0-.506.41-.916.915-.916L21 0l-.004 7.712a.917.917 0 0 1-1.832 0V3.183l-6.827 6.828-1.349-1.348 6.828-6.828h-4.529a.915.915 0 0 1-.915-.915M1.835 17.816l6.828-6.828 1.349 1.349-6.829 6.827h4.529a.915.915 0 0 1 0 1.831L0 21l.004-7.713a.916.916 0 0 1 1.831 0z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/button><dialog aria-label=\"Modal Dialog\" aria-modal=\"true\" class=\"fixed bottom-0 left-0 right-0 top-0 z-4 size-full max-h-none max-w-none bg-white hidden\"\/><\/div><figcaption class=\"relative text-sm mt-1 pr-2.5\">\n<div style=\"max-height:none;overflow:visible\">\n<div>\n<p>Astrodon is the official state dinosaur of Maryland.<\/p>\n<p class=\"copyright\">\u00a9Dmitry Bogdanov \/ CC BY 3.0 \u2013 <a href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Astrodon_johnstoni.jpg\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:Original;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">Original<\/a> \/ <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/3.0\/deed.en\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:License;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">License<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><span>(Dmitry Bogdanov \/ CC BY 3.0)<\/span><\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\"><em>Astrodon johnstoni<\/em>\u00a0was\u00a0a massive, herbivorous sauropod dinosaur\u00a0that lived in what is now Maryland 95\u2013130 million years ago during the Early Cretaceous period. <em>Astrodon johnstoni<\/em> was a 50- to 60-foot-long, 30-foot-tall, 20-ton creature with a long neck and tail. Its name means star tooth, referring to a star-like pattern inside its fossilized teeth. The fossil was named by Christopher Johnston in 1859.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"mb-4 text-xl font-bold md:text-2xl\">Maryland State Cat: The Calico<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"relative mb-4\">\n<div class=\"relative\"><img alt=\"Are Cats Mammals\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"960\" height=\"412\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" class=\"rounded-lg\" style=\"color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/VK4KP4K5KSJ9.rIwMc4Qbw--\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTQxMjtjZj13ZWJw\/https:\/\/media.zenfs.com\/en\/a_z_animals_articles_598\/8c76f018be92e15c6fa512e0d973be6e\"\/><button aria-label=\"View larger image\" class=\"group absolute bottom-0 size-full\" data-ylk=\"elm:expand;itc:1;sec:image-lightbox;slk:lightbox-open;\"><span class=\"absolute bottom-3 right-3 rounded-full bg-white p-3 opacity-100 shadow-elevation-3 transition-opacity duration-300 group-hover:block group-hover:opacity-100 md:p-[17px] lg:bottom-6 lg:right-6 lg:bg-white\/90 lg:p-5 lg:opacity-0 lg:shadow-none\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 22 22\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"size-4 lg:size-6\" width=\"22\" height=\"22\"><path d=\"M12.372.92c0-.506.41-.916.915-.916L21 0l-.004 7.712a.917.917 0 0 1-1.832 0V3.183l-6.827 6.828-1.349-1.348 6.828-6.828h-4.529a.915.915 0 0 1-.915-.915M1.835 17.816l6.828-6.828 1.349 1.349-6.829 6.827h4.529a.915.915 0 0 1 0 1.831L0 21l.004-7.713a.916.916 0 0 1 1.831 0z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/button><dialog aria-label=\"Modal Dialog\" aria-modal=\"true\" class=\"fixed bottom-0 left-0 right-0 top-0 z-4 size-full max-h-none max-w-none bg-white hidden\"\/><\/div><figcaption class=\"relative text-sm mt-1 pr-2.5\">\n<div style=\"max-height:none;overflow:visible\">\n<div>\n<p>Calico cats consist of unusual shades of orange, black and white.<\/p>\n<p class=\"copyright\">\u00a9Kristi Blokhin\/Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><span>(Kristi Blokhin\/Shutterstock.com)<\/span><\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">In 2001, the calico cat (<em>Felis catus<\/em>) was declared the official state feline of Maryland.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">Calico cats are shades of orange, black, and white. A calico cat must be a true tricolor, with the three colors appearing in separate patches. Some standards define the minimum amount of white that must cover the body, while others permit tabby striping within the color patches.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">The majority of calico cats are female. Male calico cats are extremely rare, occurring in only about 1 in every 3,000 calico births. Calico cats, particularly in Southeast Asia, have historically been thought to bring good luck and even wealth.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"mb-4 text-xl font-bold md:text-2xl\">Horse: The Thoroughbred Horse<\/h2>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">In 2003, Maryland declared the thoroughbred horse (<em>Equus caballus<\/em>) to be the official state horse. The typical thoroughbred horse weighs 1,000 pounds and measures 64 inches tall at the withers. A thoroughbred can have a coat that is chestnut, black, gray, or even roan in color.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"relative mb-4\">\n<div class=\"relative\"><img alt=\"Most Expensive Horses - Thoroughbred\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"960\" height=\"502\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" class=\"rounded-lg\" style=\"color:transparent\" src=\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/.DP2.5oYGk7TlahjQoJQvQ--\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTUwMjtjZj13ZWJw\/https:\/\/media.zenfs.com\/en\/a_z_animals_articles_598\/739e928b641f75272deffb44e1ad53ea\"\/><button aria-label=\"View larger image\" class=\"group absolute bottom-0 size-full\" data-ylk=\"elm:expand;itc:1;sec:image-lightbox;slk:lightbox-open;\"><span class=\"absolute bottom-3 right-3 rounded-full bg-white p-3 opacity-100 shadow-elevation-3 transition-opacity duration-300 group-hover:block group-hover:opacity-100 md:p-[17px] lg:bottom-6 lg:right-6 lg:bg-white\/90 lg:p-5 lg:opacity-0 lg:shadow-none\"><svg viewbox=\"0 0 22 22\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"size-4 lg:size-6\" width=\"22\" height=\"22\"><path d=\"M12.372.92c0-.506.41-.916.915-.916L21 0l-.004 7.712a.917.917 0 0 1-1.832 0V3.183l-6.827 6.828-1.349-1.348 6.828-6.828h-4.529a.915.915 0 0 1-.915-.915M1.835 17.816l6.828-6.828 1.349 1.349-6.829 6.827h4.529a.915.915 0 0 1 0 1.831L0 21l.004-7.713a.916.916 0 0 1 1.831 0z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/button><dialog aria-label=\"Modal Dialog\" aria-modal=\"true\" class=\"fixed bottom-0 left-0 right-0 top-0 z-4 size-full max-h-none max-w-none bg-white hidden\"\/><\/div><figcaption class=\"relative text-sm mt-1 pr-2.5\">\n<div style=\"max-height:none;overflow:visible\">\n<div>\n<p>A thoroughbred horse\u2019s back legs are particularly long, which amplifies thrust as they gallop.<\/p>\n<p class=\"copyright\">\u00a9Anaite\/Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><span>(Anaite\/Shutterstock.com)<\/span><\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">Thoroughbred horses can maintain a pace of up to 40 miles per hour for prolonged periods. Thoroughbreds are used by mounted police, show jumpers, and dressage teams. The thoroughbred horse is most recognizable as a racehorse.<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-4 text-lg md:leading-8 break-words\">The post <a href=\"https:\/\/a-z-animals.com\/blog\/discover-the-official-state-animals-of-maryland\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:Discover The 10 Official State Animals Of Maryland;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">Discover The 10 Official State Animals Of Maryland<\/a> appeared first on <a href=\"https:\/\/a-z-animals.com?utm_campaign=feed&amp;utm_source=rss_feed&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_content=709672\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-ylk=\"slk:A-Z Animals;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas\" class=\"link \">A-Z Animals<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><br \/><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The post Discover The 10 Official State Animals Of Maryland appeared first on A-Z Animals. Quick Take Astrodon johnstoni was a massive prehistoric creature with a long neck and tail. The Baltimore oriole, adopted as the state bird in 1947, was the first official state animal of Maryland. The majority of calico cats are female. [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":5395,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[6],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-5394","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-pets-news"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/pe-ts.fun\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5394","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/pe-ts.fun\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/pe-ts.fun\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pe-ts.fun\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pe-ts.fun\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=5394"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/pe-ts.fun\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5394\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pe-ts.fun\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/5395"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/pe-ts.fun\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=5394"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pe-ts.fun\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=5394"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pe-ts.fun\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=5394"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}