oogle+
acebookCollecting fossils – safety and ethics
Safe practice when collecting fossils
There's a lot to consider when collecting fossils. Not only is your own safety and that of others of paramount importance, but one ought also consider the legality and ethics of collecting fossils. In some instances it is against the law to remove fossils or damage rocks, while in others it is considered bad practise.
English nature and Scottish Natural Heritage publish guidelines for responsible fossil hunting, which we heartily endorse - summarised below, with our own additions.
Etiquette
- Keep to the marked footpaths, and public areas.
- Always check local bylaws. You may find these on signs at the car park or entrance to fossiliferous areas. Be particularly careful to check signs on National Trust properties.
- When on private land, such as fields or quarries, always check with the landowner that you can be on the site. Most landowners are more than happy with this, but always be sure to agree beforehand who will take ownership of anything you find.
- Where possible, collect from loose blocks - not the outcrop itself. Never use a hammer unless absolutely unavoidable.
- Never over-collect: a few samples representing the diversity are invariably more useful than lots of similar specimens.
- leave the site as you would hope to find it.
- Never disturb wildlife, particularly nesting birds (who can become unsettled or agressive when approached!)
Safety
- Never collect in mine shafts, and take great care in disused quarries.
- Always take note of tide times when at the coast; be wary of deep water and strong currents.
- Always wear goggles when using a hammer, and hard hats when working below cliffs.
- Wear strong boots offering ankle support, especially when walking over uneven terrain.
- Be sure to carry spare food, waterproofs and a whistle with you. The international distress signal is five long blasts of a whistle, repeated every minute.
GeoLogic Buyer’s Guides
Feedback
We'd love to know how useful you found this page - please pop any thoughts into the form below, no matter how minor. All the fields are optional - even if you've nothing to say, do give us a rating!