How to Go Fossil Hunting

Decide on a recognized fossil bed area. Some areas have larger concentrations of fossilized remains, although fossils can be found in many areas with exposed sedimentary rocks. Looking for fossils in high fossil areas gives you a better chance to find something, but more people have also been there before you.

Read up on the fossils you're most likely to find in the particular area and how to spot them. For example, only certain rocks like limestone and sandstone contain fossils. Before setting out, you'll want to know what fossils may be present, the types of rocks they may be in, and the particular techniques you'll need to find them given the situation.

Join a rock, palaeontology or natural history group. Such groups sometimes sponsor fossil hunting days and you can learn from more experienced fossil hunters. Or, visit a local natural history museum in the area that you want to hunt in to see examples of fossils found nearby.

Use proper equipment for fossil hunting as the wrong tools or the wrong technique can damage the fossil. A hammer, chisel and wrapping material are basic items needed in addition to safety gear. For soft sediment, you'll want a spade, trowel, brush and knife.

Practice breaking apart different types of rock so that you get a feel for the process before you begin searching for fossils or try to chisel one out of a rock. Be careful not to damage the fossil as different types of rock break apart differently.

Look for fossils that have weathered out of the rock. You may find them in loose rocks at the bottom of an outcrop or exposed on the rock face. Looking on the ground for fossils often requires a good eye and some patience. Beaches are also good places to look for items like fossilized sharks' teeth.

Record field notes for every fossil hunting trip. Keeping good records helps give you an accurate account of your fossil hunting and helps you to identify your fossil. This will be easier if you have a record of the rock material, location and other pertinent information. Label the specimens found in the field to prevent a mix up.