APRIL
Learn about the rich history of Fossil Findings. From its founding to present day, our museum has been dedicated to preserving and showcasing the cultural history of our community.
MARCH
Learn about the fascinating history of Fossil Findings, from its founding to its current status as a premier museum in the region.
FEBRUARY
Fossil Findings is dedicated to preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of our community through education and engagement. Our mission is to inspire curiosity and foster a deeper appreciation for the diversity of human culture.
JANUARY
I found an amazing fossil that I want to tell you about!
This Month’s Fossil: Ammonite
My fossil of the month is an ammonite! Ammonites are one of the coolest fossils I’ve ever found. They look like tiny, spiral shells that used to belong to sea creatures that lived millions of years ago. These creatures lived during the time of dinosaurs, and their spiral shells are one of the most famous fossils on the Jurassic Coast.
Why Is This Ammonite So Special?
Super Old: This ammonite is about 200 million years old! It’s from the Jurassic period, which is why the Jurassic Coast is so famous for fossils like this one.
Spiral Shape: Ammonites are known for their spiral-shaped shells. The spiral shape helps them float and swim in the water. Some ammonites were really big - some could grow as large as a football! This one was small, but still very cool.
How Did I Find It?
I was walking along the beach near Lyme Regis, tapping on some rocks (just like my fossil hunting guide, Mike Harrison, showed me) when I saw the spiral shape in a rock. At first, I wasn’t sure, but then Mike cracked the rock open carefully, and there it was - an ammonite! It was like finding hidden treasure!
Fun Facts About Ammonites
Not Actually a Shellfish: Even though ammonites look like snails or shells, they are more closely related to squid and octopuses.
They Disappeared: Sadly, ammonites went extinct about 65 million years ago, right around the time dinosaurs disappeared. But we can still find their fossils today!
Great for Fossil Hunters: Ammonites are one of the most popular fossils for collectors. They’re easy to spot in rocks, and they make great souvenirs!
Where Can You Find Ammonites?
The Jurassic Coast is one of the best places in the world to find ammonites! You can walk along the beach at Lyme Regis, Charmouth, or other nearby places, and look for ammonite fossils hidden in the rocks. If you’re new to fossil hunting, it’s a good idea to go with a guide like Mike Harrison, who can show you the best places to look.