This site is based on real headstart initiatives that enable Maryland students to participate in the raising, research, release, and tagging of the state reptile—the diamondback terrapin.

However, since few hatchlings are available for adoption, it just isn't feasible for every school to participate. This site will help expand the concept of headstarting beyond its current boundaries and open this exciting educational endeavor to every child in Maryland as well as surrounding states.

Teaching children about protecting hatchlings, and allowing them to interact with other children who have seen the animals firsthand, will help them connect to conservation needs of the terrapins as well as the entire Chesapeake Bay ecosystem.