Joe Sun Dec 25, 2011 12:17 am
Firstly, sorry for my absence. I've been quite busy recently, and simply haven't the time to get into my fossils. I will get round to writing the webpage about Charmouth for UKAFH, but I don't have the time right now.
Charmouth is the most famous fossil hunting location in the whole of the UK. It has been recognised for it's astounding fossils, and the quantity which they can be found in. Mary Anning, the Princess of Palaeontology, was at the forefront of these unique discoveries - making several fantastic finds, including a complete Ichthyosaur, amongst other things, at the mere age of 12! Now-a-days the Charmouth area is heavily picked over by countless people. Charmouth provides a unique opportunity to find a range of fossils which are suitable for both beginner, and professionals.
Fossils: There are plenty of fossils to be found, although depending on what you are after it can be challenging. There are common finds to be had such as Belemnites, Ammonites, Crinoids, and even Ichthyosaur bones. There are also rarer finds to be had such as insects, complete marine reptiles, and very rarely dinosaur bones.
Where to look: Just about anywhere is worth a look at Charmouth. Digging directly into the cliffs is not illegal, therefore shouldn't be attempted. The shingle at Charmouth provides opportunity to find loose fossils, but also ammonites can be split out of the hard limestone rocks. Ammonites in the limestone rocks can be difficult to find, and only a certain type withstand preparation. The best type of rocks to look for are called flatstones, which are long thin pieces of limestone which frequently have the edge of an ammonite pointing out and can be split along the plains.
Finds are more prolific in the winter, but there are finds to be had in the summer. To summarise Charmouth is a good location to find fossils, and you are always guaranteed to come away with something, but in order to find rarer finds you have to spend a reasonable amount of time searching.
Regards,
Joe