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Introduction
Barton-on-Sea is a good place to look for fossils. The
local geology dates from Palaeogene period / Eocene epoch, around 33-40 million years ago. There are also
a good supply of Lower Carboniferous fossils within the imported sea defense,
which are understood to originate from Shepton Mallet in Somerset. The following
report includes details of the local (situ) and imported materials.
Where to look for fossils?
The best place to look for local fossils is west of the town, where the cliffs are subject to rapid erosion. This area is accessible via the coastal path, although a little off road walking is required to reach the best parts. No hammers are required as the material is soft and manageable. During our recent visit we were equipped with chisels simply to pick through the marine sediment.
Paul and Roy looking for Eocene fossils in the cliffs, west of the town.
Make sure you wear suitable footwear, especially if it's been raining recently; many areas are extremely muddy and it would be easy to lose an unsuitable shoe or trainer! Walking boots or wellies are probably the best bet.
For more information about the features and processes controlling coastal fossil collecting locations click here.
What fossils might you find?
Fossils are abundant and include a range of marine inhabitants, mainly shells and occasional sharks teeth.
(Left) Turritella terebralis (Right) Large Shark Tooth
(Left) Volutospina ambigua (Right) Dentalyum
Many small shells including 'Turritella terebralis' are found within the soft clay.
Besides the local Eocene geology, a number of older carboniferous fossils can be found within the rock used to defend the coastline from erosion. These rocks form a barrier running the length of the beach.
'Barton-on-sea' sea defense originating from Shepton Mallet in Somerset
While fossils are abundant, we only removed a very small number of specimens for further analysis. We don't recommend that visitors hammer the rocks, which could result in long-term damage to the sea defense.
A small trilobite tail among other fossil fragments.
(Left) Crinoid calyx - email us with your ideas (Right) Fenestella bryozoan
Protecting your finds
It's important to spend some time considering the best way to protect your finds onsite, in transit, on display and in storage. Prior to your visit, consider the equipment and accessories you're likely to need, as these will differ depending on the type of rock, terrain and prevailing weather conditions.
(Left) Fossil wrapped in newspaper, ready for transport. (Right) A small compartment box containing cotton wool is ideal for separating delicate specimens.
When you discover a fossil, examine the surrounding matrix (rock) and consider how best to remove the specimen without breaking it; patience and consideration are key. The aim of extraction is to remove the specimen with some of the matrix attached, as this will provide added protection during transit and future handling; sometimes breaks are unavoidable, but with care you should be able to extract most specimens intact. In the event of breakage, carefully gather all the pieces together, as in most cases repairs can be made at a later time...continued.
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