Fossil Hunters Starter Pack - Fossil Hunting Tools Kit

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The work of Sir Richard Owen, founder of the Natural History Museum, has left its mark on modern palaeontology. Owen not only coined the term 'dinosaur' (meaning 'terrible lizard'), but described many new creatures and played a huge part in our fascination for the discovery and display of fossils. For those who enjoy road trips, the Jurassic Coast is well-connected by road networks. The A35 and A37 are the main routes that run parallel to the coast, providing easy access to various towns and attractions along the way. Just plug in the coordinates of your desired destination into your GPS, and you’ll be on your way to the Jurassic Coast fossil hunting grounds. As a leisure activity, it combines the thrill of the chase with the gentle pleasure of being out in nature. Guided tours and events: Joining a guided fossil hunting tour or participating in organized events can provide valuable insights and guidance from experts. Local guides are knowledgeable about the area’s geological history and can help you identify fossils. Additionally, events such as fossil festivals and workshops offer opportunities to learn from professionals and connect with fellow enthusiasts.

The Jurassic Coast is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. If you’re traveling by air, the nearest international airports are Bristol Airport and Exeter Airport, both offering connections to major cities in the UK and Europe. From there, you can rent a car or take public transportation to reach the Jurassic Coast. If something looks unusual or odd, the chances are it probably is, says Lomax. "So collect it. It's how we learn." By following these safety precautions, you can have a safe and enjoyable fossil hunting experience on the Jurassic Coast. Always prioritize your well-being and that of others, while also respecting the natural environment and the unique geological heritage of the area. When embarking on a fossil hunting adventure on the Jurassic Coast, having the right tools can greatly enhance your success. Here are some essential tools to consider bringing: Research and education: Before setting out on your fossil hunting expedition, take the time to educate yourself about the types of fossils commonly found along the Jurassic Coast. Familiarize yourself with various species of marine life, ammonites, belemnites, and even dinosaur footprints that can be found in the area. Understanding what you’re looking for will greatly increase your chances of successful identification.

Your Guide to Fossil Hunting Equipment!

Follow local regulations: Familiarize yourself with any specific regulations or guidelines set by local authorities or organizations. Some areas may have limitations on collecting fossils or require permits, so it’s important to be informed and comply with these regulations. Fossil hunting is a great activity for all the family. It's exciting, enchanting and educational. Every fossil holds a bit more information about our planet's history – are you going to add to it? Size and proportions: Consider the size and proportions of the fossil in relation to its known species. This can help narrow down the possibilities and assist in accurate identification. Keep in mind that some fossils may only be fragments, so try to piece together parts of the fossil to gain a clearer understanding of its original form. Camera or smartphone: Capture the beauty of the Jurassic Coast and document your fossil finds by bringing a camera or smartphone. This way, you can relive the memories and share your discoveries with others.

One of the most exciting parts of fossil hunting is being able to identify the fossils you find. Here are some tips to help you recognize and understand the fossils you come across: Use tools responsibly: Handle your hammer and chisel with care and use them responsibly. Avoid swinging the hammer haphazardly and be mindful of others nearby. Always wear protective eyewear when using a hammer and chisel to protect your eyes from flying fragments. Container or bag: Bring a container or a sturdy bag to safely store your fossil finds. Look for a container that is durable and has enough space to accommodate various-sized fossils. Additionally, sealable plastic bags can be useful for protecting smaller or delicate specimens.Visit during low tide: The best time to search for fossils is during low tide when more of the beach and foreshore are exposed. This provides greater access to fossil-rich areas and increases the chances of making unique discoveries. So what are the fossil collecting laws? The requirements vary based on your location so you’ll have to do a bit of area research. Your local government should inform you of whether you’re going to a place where you are allowed to take fossils home with you. If not, you will have to simply record pictures and notes and leave the fossils behind. This article will guide you through the essentials of fossil hunting on the Jurassic Coast, providing you with valuable tips and information to make your experience both enjoyable and successful. From understanding the best times to go fossil hunting to knowing the rules and regulations, we’ve got you covered. Seeking professional advice: If you’re unsure about the identification of a fossil, don’t hesitate to seek the help of professionals. Local geological societies, museums, and universities may have experts who can assist you in identifying your finds. They may also be able to provide further insights into the geological history and significance of the fossils discovered. At national parks, keep in mind the museum rule: you can look, admire, and appreciate, but don’t touch or remove anything.

Record your findings: Keep a record of the fossils you find, including their location, date, and any identifying features. This information can be valuable for personal reference or for contributing to scientific research. Once you understand the legal aspects of fossil hunting, you can start planning your adventures. In my fossil hunting trips, I have found YouTube to be a helpful resource as I prepare for a fossil hunt. Report significant finds: If you make any significant fossil discoveries, such as rare or scientifically important specimens, consider reporting them to local geological societies or museums. This helps contribute to scientific research and the understanding of the geological history of the Jurassic Coast. Many first-time fossil hunters neglect safety, equipment, and geography. Avoiding these mistakes will help you start a fossil collection. Let’s get started!Be patient and persistent: Fossil hunting requires patience and persistence. Keep in mind that finding fossils is not guaranteed, and it may take some time and effort to spot them. Stay focused, scan the ground carefully, and don’t be discouraged if you don’t find anything right away. Budleigh Salterton: On the eastern end of the Jurassic Coast, Budleigh Salterton in East Devon provides opportunities for fossil hunting. The cliffs and beaches here are known for their fossilized wood and plant remains, as well as the occasional ammonite. Kathy Wankel stumbled across a surprisingly complete Tyrannosaurus while camping. This dinosaur will be displayed in the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History in Washington D.C. Dubbed, the Nation’s T. rex, Wankel unwittingly made a tremendous contribution to science. Keep your eyes open and you too may find something incredible to add to your collection or give to the world. Write down all your observations, so that the next time you go fossil-hunting, you’ll be able to start noticing patterns for where to find the best fossils in your area. Take as many pictures as possible for reference. Once you have made your first fossil discovery and have successfully prepared it, you can move to the next step: identification. Fossil identification can become quite complex.