What rocks contain fossils Jurassic Coast?

The Jurassic strata (layers of rock) in this area are mainly composed of grey limestones, shales and marls (lime rich mudstones). These are the rocks you want to focus on when searching for fossils (see image below taken facing church cliffs).

Where is the best place to find fossils on the Isle of Wight?

The Wealden beds emerge along the south west coast in a long stretch from Compton to Atherfield and at Yaverland beach. Cretaceous rocks underlie most of the southern half of the Island and these areas are where all the best dinosaur fossils have been found.

Where can I find fossils on the Isle of Wight?

The Isle of Wight has two main areas where dinosaur bones can be found loose on the beach. The smallest area is Yaverland beach near Sandown with the main exposure approximately 100 metres long. The second area is approximately 6 miles long on the south-west coast of the Island and stretches from Atherfield to Compton.

Can you dig for fossils on the Jurassic Coast?

Fossils can come from almost anywhere along the Jurassic Coast, but they are mostly quite hard to find and in some places fossil collecting is not allowed without permission. For any beginner, the beaches between Charmouth and Lyme Regis are the best and safest place to try fossil hunting.

Where are the dinosaur footprints Isle of Wight?

Several locations on the Isle of Wight reveal huge casts of dinosaur footprints. These can be discovered at low-tide at Compton and Brook beaches, with the best place being Hanover Point just along Brook Beach in West Wight .

Is Isle of Wight good for fossils?

Fossils & dinosaurs. The Isle of Wight is regarded as one of the richest areas for Dinosaur discovery in Europe, which has already earned it the title “Dinosaur Island”.

How can you tell if a rock is a fossil?

Have an eye for detail Look for regular lines, marks or patterns on pebbles, like the ridges or growth lines of a shell. Look for tiny pieces among the beach pebbles, not just big stones. Often crinoid stems or belemnites can be as small as your little fingernail.

What should you look for when finding a fossil?