US Trends

what is marylands mascot

The mascot most people mean when they ask “what is Maryland’s mascot” is Testudo , a diamondback terrapin (a type of turtle) that represents the University of Maryland, College Park.

Quick Scoop

  • Mascot name: Testudo.
  • What it is: An anthropomorphic diamondback terrapin (turtle) tied to the Chesapeake Bay region.
  • Who it represents: The University of Maryland, College Park (“Maryland Terrapins”).
  • Since when: First adopted in the early 1930s.
  • Fun detail: The diamondback terrapin is also Maryland’s official state reptile.

A tiny bit of story

Back in the early 1930s, Maryland’s football coach H. Curley Byrd pushed for “Terrapins” as the team name, inspired by the native diamondback terrapins around his hometown of Crisfield. The costumed figure that grew from that choice became Testudo, who now appears at games, rallies, and campus events as the face of Maryland pride.

Over time, Testudo has gone from simple symbol to full-on campus legend, with multiple statues on campus and traditions like rubbing Testudo’s nose for good luck before exams or big games.

Today’s vibe and “latest news”

In recent years, Maryland has leaned into Testudo with slogans like “Fear the Turtle” to rally fans and brand the athletic program. Videos and social content from 2024–2026 still spotlight Testudo as the enduring symbol of the university and a core part of campus culture.

You’ll still see Testudo leading teams out, hyping crowds, and serving as the visual shorthand for “Terps” across merch, social media, and game broadcasts.

Mini FAQ

  1. Is Testudo just a college mascot or the state mascot?
    • Testudo is specifically the University of Maryland mascot, but the species (diamondback terrapin) is Maryland’s official state reptile.
  1. Why a terrapin and not a crab or something else Maryland-y?
    • Terrapins are native to the Chesapeake Bay area and were closely associated with the region and Byrd’s hometown, so they became a natural symbol for the university.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.