The Terrapin Institute

03/15/2026

Every winter, northern map turtles cluster together to hibernate in the water beneath a frozen lake. Then one year, their resting grounds became a scene of violence.

01/15/2026

01/07/2026

Well done Delaware!

Have you spotted our updated Diamondback Terrapin crossing signs along Route 1? ⚠️🐢

Coastal Highway runs between some of the busiest terrapin crossing areas, where these turtles move between the Inland Bays and their nesting sites each spring and summer. Diamondback terrapins are the only turtle species adapted to brackish waters, making them a vital part of our coastal ecosystem.

Unfortunately, road crossings put terrapins at risk, and their populations have declined due to habitat loss, predation, and vehicle strikes. That’s why we’ve updated our four terrapin crossing signs between Dewey Beach and Fenwick Island—two southbound and two northbound—to help raise awareness in these high-traffic areas.

Slowing down and staying alert during terrapin season can make a big difference in protecting this unique species. 🚗💚

📸Terrapin photo credit shout out: Jay Fleming, Photographer
🪧Sign credit: Southern Delaware Signs

11/04/2025

ANNAPOLIS LIVING magazine was running low on material so they put me on the cover of the November issue! Check out the story in their November issue - available in print at local businesses.

Thanks to the magazine's publisher Faith Burns for including me! Photo credit on the cover goes to Studio 2 Saint Michaels!

Check out the full feature moon my blog:
www.jayflemingphotography.com/blog

11/04/2025

10/31/2025

A lovely holiday gift

10/28/2025

Another terrapin/living shoreline enthusiast scientist is honored. John Garofalo was awarded the 2025 Watershed Champion by Blue Water Baltimore. Bringing terrapins back to the Patapsco one terp at a time.

10/14/2025

Mitigating threats to the most beloved reptile in the Chesapeake Bay

10/04/2025

A great big 13-Scute Salute to Amelia (and her Mimi Karen!) for assisting us with the release of a nest of terrapins that she found in her garden! She is a true turtle princess! 🐢👸🏼

09/12/2025

https://www.youtube.com/live/bBzhehjggrc?si=2b0OrO-GatYEsf9G
Check out this live feed of a rare two headed terrapin. They are three years old.

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