Types of Starfish in Maryland: Identification Guide and Where to Start Looking

1. What species of starfish can you find in Maryland?

Maryland's coastal waters host a handful of sea star species. The most commonly seen are the **Forbes's sea star** (*Asterias forbesi*) and the **northern sea star** (*Asterias rubens*). Both have five arms and range from brown to orange. Less frequent visitors include the **blood star** (*Henricia sanguinolenta*) with a bright red body and the **speckled sea star** (*Orasterias* species). Check out ourstarfish species overviewfor detailed identification tips.

2. Where in Maryland do people typically spot starfish?

The highest odds of seeing starfish in Maryland are along the **Atlantic coast** rather than the upper Chesapeake Bay. Assateague Island, especially around the jetties at the north end, holds solid populations. Also try the stone jetties at **Ocean City Inlet** and the tidal flats near **Sinepuxent Bay**. In the lower Chesapeake, the eastern shore around **Smith Island** and **Tangier Sound** can produce sightings. For a broader look at Maryland's coastal wildlife, visit our/wildlife/marylandpage.

3. What is the best season and time to look for starfish?

Late spring through early fall (May to September) offers the warmest water and most reliable sightings. Low tide is your best window when tide pools and exposed rocks reveal clinging sea stars. In winter, starfish often move to deeper water, but you may still find them on jetties during mild spells. Time your trips with falling tides for the best results.

4. How do you identify the most common Maryland starfish?

The two main species look similar from a distance. **Forbes's sea star** has short, blunt arms with a small central disk; its color varies from olive to brick red. **Northern sea star** has a proportionally smaller disk and longer, tapering arms, often orange or brown. A quick field mark: the northern sea star's aboral surface (top) feels rougher due to tiny spines. For a deeper dive, see ourtypes pagewith side-by-side comparisons.

See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.

5. What other animals are often confused with starfish?

Beginners sometimes mistake **brittle stars** (Ophiuroidea) for true starfish. Brittle stars have long, slender, highly flexible arms that contrast sharply with the central disk; true starfish arms are thicker and less flexible. **Cushion stars** (often in the Asterinidae family) have short arms and a puffy body. They are rare in Maryland but may turn up on Assateague. Always check arm count and flexibility to separate lookalikes.

6. What gear makes starfish spotting easier?

A pair of polarized sunglasses cuts glare on the water, making submerged sea stars pop. A simple **tide chart app** helps you plan when low tide exposes the best habitat. Many experienced beachcombers carry a waterproof field guide or a phone with offline photos. If you want to celebrate your find later, consider astarfish-themed tote bagto carry your gear.

7. Are there any other marine creatures you might see alongside starfish?

Maryland's shallow tidal zones host hermit crabs, mud snails, green crabs, and small fish like mummichogs. You may also spot **moon jellyfish** drifting in warmer months. Eelgrass beds attract **pipefish** and **seahorses**, though they are harder to find. For a broader picture of Maryland's saltwater life, browse our/wildlife/marylandhub.

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8. How can you responsibly observe starfish without harming them?

Never pull a starfish off a rock; you may tear its tube feet. If you gently handle one, keep it submerged or return it within a minute. Avoid handling during spawning season (late spring) as stress may cause them to expel gametes. Place them back exactly where you found them, upside down if possible so they can reattach. Responsible observation ensures starfish stay for future visitors.

See ourtour planning ideasfor the next step.