Alabama is home to a variety of prehistoric sea creatures that roamed the ocean depths millions of years ago. Fossil hunting is a popular activity for enthusiasts, which involves locating, digging up, and preserving fossilized remains of these ancient creatures. Here are some of the best places to go hunting for fossils of prehistoric sea creatures in Alabama.
Moundville Archaeological Park
Moundville Archaeological Park is a popular spot for fossil hunters who want to get a taste of Alabama’s prehistoric past. The park is home to the Moundville Museum, which houses a collection of objects and artifacts from the Mississippian culture.
During the Mississippian period, Alabama was home to a diverse array of marine life, including shellfish, sea turtles, crocodiles, and extinct marine reptiles known as mosasaurs. These creatures left behind a wealth of fossils, many of which have been discovered at Moundville.
McWane Science Center
Located in Birmingham, the McWane Science Center is a great place to learn about prehistoric sea creatures and to go fossil hunting. The center offers a variety of hands-on exhibits and displays featuring marine fossils, including an exhibit on Alabama’s own prehistoric reptile, the Mosasaurus.
The McWane Science Center also offers a variety of educational programs for children and adults, including guided tours, lectures, and workshops on fossil hunting and paleontology.
Black Belt Museum
The Black Belt Museum is located in Selma, Alabama, and houses a collection of fossils and artifacts from the prehistoric past of Alabama’s Black Belt region. The museum features exhibits on the geological history of the area, as well as on the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Visitors to the Black Belt Museum can see a variety of marine fossils, including shellfish, trilobites, and ammonites. The museum also offers guided tours and educational programs on fossil hunting and paleontology.
Fort Payne
Fort Payne is located in northern Alabama and is home to a variety of prehistoric fossils, including those of marine creatures. The area is known for its rich geological history, which includes the Pottsville Formation, a sequence of marine sedimentary rocks that date back millions of years.
Fossil hunters visiting Fort Payne can expect to find a variety of marine fossils, including trilobites, ammonites, and shells. The area is also home to the Alabama state fossil, a type of trilobite known as the Alabama argus.
Memphis Sands
Located in western Alabama, the Memphis Sands are a popular spot for fossil hunting. The area is rich in marine fossils, including bivalves, gastropods, and various types of brachiopods. Other fossilized remains of prehistoric sea creatures, such as sea urchins and crinoids, can also be found in the Memphis Sands.
Safety Tips
When going fossil hunting, it is important to take certain precautions to ensure your safety. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
- Wear appropriate clothing and shoes for the terrain and weather conditions.
- Always be aware of your surroundings and watch for potential hazards, such as loose rocks or steep drop-offs.
- Use caution when handling tools and avoid swinging them too close to other people.
- Avoid trespassing on private property or protected areas.
- Respect the environment and only take what you need.
Conclusion
Hunting for fossils of prehistoric sea creatures in Alabama can be a rewarding and educational experience. From Moundville Archaeological Park to the Memphis Sands, there are plenty of places to explore and discover Alabama’s rich prehistoric past. Always remember to take the necessary safety precautions and respect the environment when fossil hunting. Happy hunting!