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How to Excavate a Dinosaur Fossil

Fossil hunting is a fascinating hobby, one part scientific discipline and one part adventure. Its combination of hard science, physical exertion and the sheer thrill of finding a fossil and excavating it -- of touching the past -- can't be overstated. With preparation, you can get the most out of this fascinating hobby as well as discover the extraordinary evidence of our planet's past.

Things You'll Need

Digital camera
Rock hammer
Small paintbrush
Tinfoil
Newspaper
Plastic bucket

Instructions

- 1
  
  Careful documentation of the area can provide vital clues as to what fossil you're excavating.
  
  Document your find before you do anything to remove it from the area. Take photos of the fossil from as many angles as possible and take wider shots of the area so you can document the surrounding geology. This is particularly important as the nature of the rock surrounding the fossil can offer vital clues as to what the fossil is and in what climate it existed.
- 2
  Work out the extent of the fossil's size to determine whether it is practical to excavate it. The most effective method is a combination of careful observation and brush work. See how much of the fossil is visible. Carefully use a small paintbrush to clear away any loose material. Document the area again to capture any details you have uncovered.
- 3
  Spread a piece of tinfoil or newspaper on the ground beneath the fossil before you start excavating it. This will catch any sections of the fossil if it fragments during excavation.
- 4
  Use a rock hammer to remove the fossil from the surrounding area. Rock hammers are specially designed tools with a square pounding surface on one side of their heads and a pick or chisel on the other. The pick is most useful when separating a fossil from soft sediment while the chisel is more useful on hard rock.

Nature