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You are currently here: Home > Fossil Locations > South East > Hastings |
In partnership with JuniorGeo |
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Introduction
When you visit Hastings for the first time you could be forgiven for anticipating a large volume of fossils. The towering cliffs and stunning layers of sediment promise many of the fundamental characteristics of a prime location. In fact, local literature also supports the presence of many fossils, including some stunning finds in recent years. However, the reality is less impressive and visitors will need to work hard to find the range of fossils necessary for building a picture of this 140 million year old river delta.
The rocks at Hastings date from the Early Cretaceous, between 132-147 million years ago, and were formed when this area of East Sussex was above the sea. During this time, Hastings would have formed part of an extensive river delta system, comprising of many rivers and streams. As such, the sediments found today represent the layers deposited in the rivers and lakes at this time.
Among the fossils Hastings is most famous for includes several species of dinosaur, fish remains (mainly Lepidotes) and several plant species.
Where to look for fossils?
Finding fossils at Hastings requires a lot of patience and preferably some prior knowledge of the local area. When you first arrive at Hastings you can quickly find evidence of the former delta environment, including perfectly preserved ripples formed in the rivers and lakes at this time. As you move along the beach (at low tide), it's worth searching among foreshore boulders for evidence of dinosaurs that would have been grazing at this time.
(Left) Group searches the foreshore for evidence of dinosaurs. (Right) Sam imagines how this Iguanodon footprint was formed.
Evidence of dinosaurs comes in the form of large footprints, distinguishable by their classic three-toed impressions. The most commonly found dinosaur footprints were left by Iguanodon - a large land-based herbivore (pictured in the location summary at the top of the page).
Other fossils can also be found within these boulders; including plants, small shells and fish remains.
For more information about the features and processes controlling coastal fossil collecting locations click here.
What fossil might you find?
(Left) Spectacular fossilised ripples indicate the presence of water in the delta system. (Right) Large inverted Iguanodon footprint.
(Left) Horsetail ferns would have attracted grazing dinosaurs to the area. (Right) Plant roots.
(Left) Fossilised wood - would probably have been washed into the rivers. (Right) Small fresh-water bi-valve shells.
(Left) Concentration of fish remains and vegetation. (Right) Close-up reveals small scales, teeth and bones.
(Left) Deep ripples in the sediment. (Right) Close-up reveals hundreds of small shells that have accumulated between the ripples.
(Left) A partial Lepidotes fish. (Right) An excellently preserved pine cone.
(Left) A small bone fragment - fish?. (Right) A burrow, lined with bivalves.
Click here for more pictures of our recent club visit to Hastings
In summary, Hastings is one of a few UK locations where you can explore this particular cretaceous environment (the other is the Isle of Wight). As such, despite the low find frequency, Hastings provides an essential understanding of what was happening above sea 140 million years ago. It's also extremely rewarding when you discover one of the fantastic dinosaur footprints on the foreshore.
If you're looking for lots of fossils you'll be better off visiting the neighbouring areas around Folkestone and Eastbourne. However if you're in search of scientific understanding, then Hastings is an excellent choice.
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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