References
- Discovering fossils:
general information about fossil collecting in the UK - The scientific method:
explored as part of the Museum's Darwin Centre experience
Piltdown man
How does a typical excavation today compare with Dawson and Woodward's work at Piltdown? Click on the picture to explore.
3. In the field | A range of experts
A microscopic image of a plant spore
©The Natural History Museum
Many different experts take part in one dig. Experts in fossil reptiles, plants, insects and micro-organisms collect samples of the earth and examine them in the field and in a laboratory for signs of former life. This tells them about the sort of time they are dealing with and the kinds of plants and animals that were living here.
All this is important in helping you to build up the whole picture. If something stood out, you'd be able to explain it.' Andy Currant, Museum palaeontologist.
