THE FOSSIL COLLECTOR'S TOOLKIT:

• hand lens
• notebook, pencil and marker pen
• newspaper for wrapping specimens, which also prevents them drying out too quickly
• appropriate footwear and clothing
• long-handed trowel, fork, long shoe-horn for overturning small nodules
• camera
• First Aid kit
• hygienic wipes
• water and a snack!

A hammer is useful, but do remember to wear goggles when splitting rocks.

Brushes and a sieve can be useful to avoid carrying unnecessary sand or clay

Always follow the Geological Code: http://www.rockwatch.org.uk/geological_code.html

The Scottish code may be found: http://www.scottishgeology.com/where-to-go/fossil-collecting/fossil-code/

Consider all aspects of heath and safety regarding the site and also from your perpective and the people with you. A useful place for fossil localities, the sorts of fossils that you might find, specific safety considerations and  may be found here. You THere is oftehttp://www.discoveringfossils.co.uk/locations.htm

IMPORTANT - Check the times of tides before the visit

The essentials of the Scottish Fossil Code:

• Seek permission – You are acting within the law if you obtain permission to extract, collect and retain fossils.
• Access responsibly – Consult the Scottish Outdoor Access Code prior to accessing land.

        Be aware that there are restrictions on access and collecting at some locations protected by statute.

• Collect responsibly – Exercise restraint in the amount collected and the equipment used.
  • Be careful not to damage fossils and the fossil resource.
  • Record details of both the location and the rocks from which fossils are collected.
• Seek advice – If you find an exceptional or unusual fossil do not try to extract it;
  • but seek advice from an expert.
  • Also seek help to identify fossils or dispose of an old collection.

• Label and look after – Collected specimens should be labelled and taken good care of.
• Donate – If you are considering donating a fossil or collection choose an Accredited museum,

                       or one local to the collection area.

The Code and associated leaflet may be viewed and downloaded from www.snh.gov.uk. - See more at: http://www.scottishgeology.com/where-to-go/fossil-collecting/fossil-code/#sthash.UjwF72sd.dpuf