June 21, 2002
COLLEGE PARK, Md. -
The expression "Fear the Turtle" soon will mean more than a way for fans to cheer on the University of Maryland Terrapin athletic teams in the 2002-2003 season.
In a first of its kind program announced by William Destler, vice president for academic affairs and provost, the University of Maryland will dedicate a portion of the proceeds from the sale of merchandise bearing the "Fear The Turtle" slogan towards research and field programs administered by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to protect the real diamondback terrapin and its habitat. The terrapin is the official State Reptile of Maryland and official mascot of the state's flagship university under state legislation passed in 1996.
"We believe establishing a partnership with DNR and leveraging interest in the university coming from a national championship season for an important conservation program is consistent with the university's statewide role in research and service," said Destler.
The initial project will include support for a senior UM biological sciences student to carry out field work in Grasonville, Cape St. Claire, and Whitehall, Maryland. Under this project the UM student will also assist in mentoring elementary school children across the state in the raising of terrapins. As funding for the program accumulates, additional projects will become possible.
The official mascot of the university since 1933, the diamondback terrapin lives along the shores of the Chesapeake. It is a "magnificent creature that charms even the most seasoned waterman with its penetrating gaze and seemingly perpetual smile," said Marguerite Whilden, a conservation specialist with DNR.
"Working with the University of Maryland, proceeds from the 'Fear The Turtle' campaign will be used for terrapin conservation, education and habitat preservation," said Governor Parris N. Glendening. "While other teams should 'Fear The Turtle' on the court and on the field, by working together here on the Chesapeake Bay we will assure the diamondback terrapin will again thrive in its natural element."
"Donating proceeds from Maryland 'Fear The Turtle' merchandise is another way the university can join in preserving one of the great natural resources of Maryland," said Brian Darmody, the university's assistant vice president for research and economic development. "We also anticipate that our University of Maryland scientists will work with researchers from the DNR to learn more about the diamondback terrapin."
Once plentiful in the Chesapeake, the diamondback is a vulnerable species today. For almost two centuries the terrapin was gathered in such great numbers for terrapin stew and other dishes that its population dwindled. Human development along the Chesapeake's shores has reduced the terrapin's habitat, straining its ability to sustain itself in the natural environment.
And natural predators, including crows, duck and herons, are a threat to eggs and hatchlings. Of the approximately 2000 eggs a female lays in her 40 to 50-year lifetime, only one will reach the age of reproduction.
The natural diamondback terrapin is a striking specimen, with mauve and turquoise markings on its soft grey skin. The vibrant whorls, or scutes, on its shell give it the "diamondback" name.
Terrapin Station has already enlisted citizens to help protect eggs and hatchlings until they are old enough to have a better chance of survival. Whilden works with beachfront owners to designate their property as terrapin sanctuaries.
Whilden's real terrapins have made more than one appearance on the campus of the University of Maryland. The creatures were big hits at Homecoming and at the university's annual Maryland Day celebration, where thousands got a look at the state reptile. The terrapins also made a live appearance on a televised pep rally before the NCAA championship basketball game and traveled to Miami for the Orange Bowl earlier this year.
For more information on Terrapin Station and diamondback terrapins, visit the DNR's website or contact George Cathcart in the University Relations Office.
