Maryland has 10 official animal symbols when the state’s separate legal categories are counted together: the Baltimore Oriole, calico cat, Maryland Blue Crab, Astrodon johnstoni, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, striped bass (rockfish), thoroughbred horse, Baltimore Checkerspot Butterfly, diamondback terrapin and megalodon.
Maryland law does not place all 10 under one generic “state animal” designation. Instead, it assigns one animal to each category—bird, cat, crustacean, dinosaur, dog, fish, horse, insect, reptile and shark. The megalodon became the state shark on October 1, 2026, making this 10-symbol list current.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
The 10 official Maryland animal symbols at a glance
The table below separates the common name, legal category and statutory source. Scientific names are included when the designation source provides them; “not stated” means the cited law does not give one for that entry.
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallOutdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware match| Animal | Official category | Scientific name in the designation | Maryland legal source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baltimore Oriole | State bird | Icterus galbula | General Provisions §7-301 |
| Calico cat | State cat | Not stated | General Provisions §7-302 |
| Maryland Blue Crab | State crustacean | Callinectes sapidus | General Provisions §7-303 |
| Chesapeake Bay Retriever | State dog | Not stated | General Provisions §7-304 |
| Striped bass or rockfish | State fish | Morone saxatilis | General Provisions §7-305 |
| Thoroughbred horse | State horse | Not stated | General Provisions §7-307 |
| Baltimore Checkerspot Butterfly | State insect | Euphydryas phaeton | General Provisions §7-308 |
| Diamondback terrapin | State reptile | Malaclemys terrapin | General Provisions §7-309 |
| Astrodon johnstoni | State dinosaur | Astrodon johnstoni | General Provisions §7-322 |
| Megalodon | State shark | Otodus megalodon | Chapter 505, effective October 1, 2026 |
Why Maryland has 10 “state animals” instead of one
“State animal” is a convenient umbrella phrase, not the wording used for a single Maryland office or statute. The General Provisions Article gives different animals different jobs in the state-symbol system. A bird, cat, crustacean, dinosaur, dog, fish, horse, insect and reptile are listed in separate sections, while the shark designation was added later through a new enactment.
#1 Best Overall
- Dog multivitamins chewable for skin & coat : Dog multivitamin is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E,which can relieve skin allergies,dryness,itching and other problems.Multivitamin for dogs nourishes skin follicles.Long-term consumption of dog vitamins multivitamin can make dog hair stronger and smoother,and reduce coat loss.The COQ10 in dog multivitamin chewable can resist oxidation and delay cell aging.Dogs with skin injuries can eat dog vitamins and supplements to promote wound healing
- Dog multivitamin relieves joint inflammation: Dog vitamins for hip and joint can supplement high-quality MSM, glucosamine, and chondroitin sulfate to promote cartilage development and repair. Long-term consumption of dog multivitamins chewable can enhance the elasticity and toughness of joint cartilage, improve joint flexibility, and move more freely. Dog multivitamin chews can reduce joint friction and relieve joint pain. Dog vitamins and supplements can prevent and improve dog joint problems
- Dog multivitamin chews are good for the gut: Vet-endorsed formula dog vitamins and supplements made from natural ingredients.Dog vitamins multivitamin chewables contain a rich blend of probiotics to support intestinal and digestive health.Dog vitamins for small dogs can regulate the balance of intestinal flora,help calcium absorption,and promote bone development.Dog multivitamins chewables improve energy metabolism,converting food into energy, making dogs more energetic in their daily activities
- Dog multivitamin chews protect overall health:Senior dog vitamins and supplements help improve blood circulation and prevent cardiovascular disease.Dog multivitamins chewable support normal liver function,promote liver detoxification,and improve negative mood.For dog with heart problems and older dog,taking dog vitamins and supplements in moderation is an auxiliary health care measure.Dog vitamins multivitamin helps enhance white blood cell activity,improve immunity,prevent infection and disease
- Dog multivitamins chewable promote brain development: The DHA in krill oil in multivitamin for dogs is an important component of the brain and retina. Dog vitamins and supplements can improve dog cognitive ability. When training puppies to learn basic commands, puppies who are properly supplemented with dog vitamins multivitamin will behave more intelligently and improve memory.Dog supplements & vitamins can prevent and relieve eye problems such as dry eyes and tear stains, and keep eyes healthy
This distinction matters when counting the symbols. The Baltimore Oriole is not a second name for a general state animal; it is the state bird. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is the state dog, and the diamondback terrapin is the state reptile. Counting those legally distinct categories produces 10 official animal designations without suggesting that Maryland has 10 animals competing for one title.
The 10 designations, category by category
Baltimore Oriole — state bird
General Provisions §7-301 identifies the Baltimore Oriole, Icterus galbula, as Maryland’s state bird. The statutory entry supplies both the familiar common name and its scientific name. In the official-symbol list, this is the bird category rather than a general designation covering other flying animals.
Calico cat — state cat
Section 7-302 names the calico cat as Maryland’s state cat. The designation source uses that common description and does not attach a scientific name. It therefore belongs in the list because of its category—cat—not because Maryland law treats “cat” as a substitute for the bird, dog or other symbols.
Maryland Blue Crab — state crustacean
Under §7-303, the Maryland Blue Crab is the state crustacean. The statute identifies it scientifically as Callinectes sapidus. “Crustacean” is its own legal category, so this entry is counted separately from the state fish even though both are aquatic animals.
Rank #2
- 8-in-1 Formula - Zesty Paws Multifunctional Bites are functional supplement chews with premium ingredients that support physical performance, antioxidants, hip & joint, heart, immune, skin, liver, & gut health for dogs of all ages, breeds, and sizes.
- Skin Health & Antioxidants – For animals with sensitive skin, this formula contains Cod Liver Fish Oil and Vitamin E to help maintain normal moisture and CoQ10 to help reduce oxidative stress.
- Hip, Joint & Performance Support - Each dog chew features OptiMSM, a premium form of MSM for muscular support, which works synergistically with the Glucosamine HCl and Chondroitin Sulfate in these chews for hip and joint support plus Cod Liver Oil and B-Complex Vitamins support normal physical performance.
- Gut Health & Probiotics - These chews also contain a six-strain Gut Health Blend (500 million cfu per chew) and a Digestive Health Blend to promote gut flora while supporting normal bowel function for dogs.
- Heart, Liver & Immune Health - Multifunctional Bites feature powerful antioxidants, premium CoQ10, Cod Liver Oil and Vitamins A, C, & E to promote healthy cardiovascular function, support liver health and enhance immune response.
Chesapeake Bay Retriever — state dog
General Provisions §7-304 designates the Chesapeake Bay Retriever as Maryland’s state dog. The cited designation names the breed but does not provide a scientific name. Its official status is therefore tied to the dog category and does not alter the separate status of the state horse or state cat.
Striped bass or rockfish — state fish
Section 7-305 calls the striped bass—or rockfish—the state fish and gives the scientific name Morone saxatilis. Both common names belong to the same statutory entry. The wording is useful for readers who know the fish by either name: Maryland’s legal symbol is not two fish designations, but one state-fish entry with two accepted common names.
Thoroughbred horse — state horse
Maryland’s state-horse designation appears in §7-307 and names the thoroughbred horse. The source does not state a scientific name for this entry. It is a separate horse category, so it remains distinct from the Chesapeake Bay Retriever’s dog designation and from the state’s other animal categories.
Baltimore Checkerspot Butterfly — state insect
Section 7-308 designates the Baltimore Checkerspot Butterfly as Maryland’s state insect and identifies it as Euphydryas phaeton. The legal category is insect, not a second bird or a general wildlife symbol. Its place in the 10-symbol count comes from that specific statutory category.
Rank #3
- COMPLETE 26-IN-1 DAILY WELLNESS FORMULA: Our advanced multivitamin for dogs is formulated to help support 26 vital nutritional areas as part of a daily routine. With essential vitamins A, C, D3, and E, these gummies help support the immune system and contribute to overall heart and brain health for dogs of all sizes.
- ADVANCED HIP AND JOINT MOBILITY SUPPORT: Formulated with Glucosamine HCl, Chondroitin, and MSM to help support cartilage health, joint flexibility, and everyday mobility — making them a great daily supplement for large breed dogs and active senior dogs.
- SKIN & COAT SUPPORT: Packed with Norwegian Salmon Oil and Biotin, our dog multivitamin helps nourish skin from within and supports a soft, glossy coat. Omega 3 fatty acids contribute to healthy skin and coat as part of a complete daily nutritional routine.
- PROBIOTICS & DIGESTIVE SUPPORT: Features a Six-Probiotic Blend (500 Million CFU) and Digestive Enzymes to help support gut health, smooth digestion, and nutrient absorption. Cranberry Powder is included as part of this comprehensive daily wellness formula.
- UNBEATABLE VALUE 250 COUNT JAR: Our 250-count jar provides lasting daily support in a delicious chicken flavor. Made in the USA in a GMP-certified facility, our soft chews are grain-free and suitable for puppies, adult, and senior dogs alike.
Diamondback terrapin — state reptile
Under §7-309, the diamondback terrapin is Maryland’s state reptile, with the scientific name Malaclemys terrapin. The designation is counted independently from the Maryland Blue Crab and striped bass because reptile, crustacean and fish are separate categories in the state-symbol laws.
Astrodon johnstoni — state dinosaur
General Provisions §7-322 names Astrodon johnstoni as Maryland’s state dinosaur. This is the entry that is easiest to miss in short lists that mention only living animals. It is nevertheless an official animal symbol under its own dinosaur category and is part of the 10-designation total.
Megalodon — state shark
Maryland added the megalodon, Otodus megalodon, as the state shark through Chapter 505. The enactment states: “THE MEGALODON (OTODUS MEGALODON) IS THE STATE SHARK.” The law took effect October 1, 2026, so the shark designation belongs in a current list published after that date.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →What changed in 2026
Chapter 505 is the reason older Maryland-symbol lists may show only nine animal categories. The bill was approved by Governor Wes Moore on May 12, 2026, and its stated effective date was October 1, 2026. Before that date, a list based on the older statutes could accurately omit a state shark; after that date, omitting the megalodon leaves the list incomplete.
Rank #4
- Joint Health Supplement for Dogs: Cosequin is the #1 vet recommended retail joint health supplement brand, supporting joint health in dogs for over 25 years
- Contains Glucosamine for Dogs: Cosequin contains glucosamine hydrochloride (FCHG49) and sodium chondroitin sulfate (TRH122), plus methylsulfonylmethane (MSM). This unique combination of ingredients supports healthy joints
- For Any Breed or Size: Whether you have a young or senior dog, a small or large breed, Cosequin helps support their joint health
- Tasty Chews for Daily Use: Cosequin comes in a tasty chewable tablet, making daily administration easy and convenient
- Exceptional Quality: Cosequin is backed by science, undergoing thorough quality inspections to ensure your dog receives a safe, high-quality product. It is manufactured in the United States with globally sourced ingredients
The older General Provisions compilation reflects the 2025 supplement and therefore predates the shark enactment. For the current shark status, Chapter 505 and its effective date control. This is a date-and-source issue, not a disagreement over whether the megalodon appears in the law.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Why some lists may show fewer or different animals
There are three common reasons for a mismatch:
- Older publication date: A list prepared before October 1, 2026 could contain the nine earlier categories and no shark.
- Category trimming: Some summaries use “state animal” to mean only one selected animal, leaving out the state bird, insect, dinosaur or other categories.
- Proposals treated as law: A bill can be introduced without becoming a designation.
The 2026 Maryland General Assembly State Symbols index listed HB1637, a proposal concerning the long-tailed salamander, at first reading in the House. That page was last updated May 19, 2026 and showed no enactment. On the legislative record reviewed, the long-tailed salamander is therefore a proposal, not an eleventh official Maryland animal symbol.
How to verify a Maryland animal-symbol claim
When a school worksheet, museum label or website gives a different count, check the category and the date rather than relying on the headline alone.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors- Identify the category. Ask whether the entry is the bird, cat, crustacean, dinosaur, dog, fish, horse, insect, reptile or shark. A list that names only one category is not a complete 10-symbol list.
- Check the statutory section. The older designations are located in General Provisions §§7-301 through 7-309, with the dinosaur in §7-322.
- Check the shark’s effective date. The megalodon entry comes from Chapter 505, effective October 1, 2026. An older code supplement may not contain it.
- Separate enacted law from introduced bills. A first-reading entry such as HB1637 does not by itself create a state symbol.
- Preserve the statutory wording. The striped bass and rockfish names refer to one state-fish entry, while the megalodon sentence creates the shark category.
Quick answers about Maryland’s animal symbols
How many official state animals does Maryland have?
Maryland has 10 when its official animal categories are counted together as of October 13, 2026: bird, cat, crustacean, dinosaur, dog, fish, horse, insect, reptile and shark.
Best Value
- Itch & Allergy Relief with Omega-3 for Dogs - with 500mg of Omega (EPA+DHA) per serving, our chewable supplement helps with hot spots, dry itchy skin, ease itching, irritated skin, stops shedding.
- Skin & Coat + Hip & Joint Supplement Combined - Omega 3 is a vital element to keep your pet active, support healthy hip and joints, brain, heart, immune health. Can be served with regular pet food.
- Bark&Spark Commitment - we are keen to give best to our furry customers and we take NO compromise when it comes to product quality. Our omega 3 bites are made in the USA, with human grade ingredients.
- Up to 3 Month Supply - with 180 salmon oil treats per jar you keep your pet healthy while not spending a fortune on overpriced supplements. Best value.
- Is Your Dog a Picky Eater? We stick to simple formulas rich in natural flavors, that could tempt a fussy eater. No hassle with pills, powder, tablets or capsules.
What is Maryland’s newest official animal symbol?
The megalodon is the newest. Chapter 505 made Otodus megalodon the state shark effective October 1, 2026.
Is Astrodon johnstoni really included?
Yes. General Provisions §7-322 identifies Astrodon johnstoni as the state dinosaur, so it is part of the official 10.
Is the long-tailed salamander an official Maryland symbol?
Not on the legislative record cited here. HB1637 appeared at first reading in the House on the State Symbols index updated May 19, 2026, with no enactment shown.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Leave a Reply