Wren’s Nest NNR Fossil Collecting Code
To ensure safe and responsible fossil collecting on the Wren’s Nest NNR, Dudley MBC
together with Natural England have created a fossil collecting code:
1. Leaders of organised groups (including schools) wishing to visit Wren’s Nest NNR and
collect fossils must first contact the Warden Service to obtain a booking form and terms and
conditions. Please call 01384 812785 or visit www.dudley.gov.uk/wrensnestnnr
2. No hammers, chisels or other tools are to be used anywhere on the reserve. If
wishing to collect samples for scientific purposes it is necessary to contact Natural England
for a collecting permit. Please call 01743 282000 or visit www.naturalengland.org.uk
3. Please avoid standing directly under rock faces and do not climb rock exposures for your
own safety and also to prevent erosion. Hard hats are recommended when working near
rock faces.
4. Fossils are easily collected from the loose scree at the base of rock faces. Please only
collect a few samples and never take fossils directly from the rock face.
5. Should you no longer require your fossils at any time in the future, please do not throw
them away. Please donate them to Dudley Museum and Art Gallery, St James’ Road,
Dudley, DY1 1HU. Please call 01384 815575 or visit www.dudley.gov.uk/dudleymuseum
6. Fossil collectors whether amateur or professional should always attempt to label and
record (as accurately as possible) the original location of fossil specimen, the date of the
collection and if possible the species of fossil. This helps in the understanding of fossil
distribution and their related environment.
Where to find fossils at Wren’s Nest
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Best place to fossil hunt
Looking after your fossils
Your rock and fossil collection
Rock and fossil collecting is a popular hobby and an excellent way to explore the fascinating science of
geology. Collections can build up very quickly, especially if you live in an area of great geological interest
or spend your holidays in rocky places!
Recording your specimens
To get the most from your collection, it is important to record some basic information. Try to record the
exact place of collection on a label that you can keep with the specimen. It is normally best not to write on
the specimen itself. Don’t worry too much about trying to identify the specimen. You can try this yourself
using books, or by comparing your finds with specimens on display in the local museum. Alternatively you
could show them to an expert at the museum.
Cleaning and storing your finds
Many rocks and fossils can be cleaned in tapwater. Old toothbrushes are useful for scrubbing the surfaces
of tougher specimens. If the specimen looks very fragile, seek advice on how to care for it from your local
museum. Try and store your specimens in a clean, dry place such as a wooden cabinet. Ideally you should
store them in separate compartments or bags, to stop them becoming damaged and broken.
The Fantastic Fossil gallery at Dudley Museum and Art Gallery includes a display of local fossils that may
help you to identify your own finds. The borough’s Keeper of Geology is happy to assist with identifications
and other aspects of collection care. You can either leave your specimens at the front desk during opening
hours or make an appointment.
Fossil Specimen Labels
Fossil species ....................................................................................................................
Location..............................................................................................................................
Date of collection...............................................................................................................
If you want to dispose of your fossils please donate them to Dudley Museum and Art Gallery, St James’
Road, Dudley, DY1 1HU. Please call 01384 815575 or visit www.dudley.gov.uk/dudleymuseum
Fossil species ....................................................................................................................
Location..............................................................................................................................
Date of collection...............................................................................................................
If you want to dispose of your fossils please donate them to Dudley Museum and Art Gallery, St James’
Road, Dudley, DY1 1HU. Please call 01384 815575 or visit www.dudley.gov.uk/dudleymuseum
Fossil species ....................................................................................................................
Location..............................................................................................................................
Date of collection...............................................................................................................
If you want to dispose of your fossils please donate them to Dudley Museum and Art Gallery, St James’
Road, Dudley, DY1 1HU. Please call 01384 815575 or visit www.dudley.gov.uk/dudleymuseum
Fossil species ....................................................................................................................
Location..............................................................................................................................
Date of collection...............................................................................................................
If you want to dispose of your fossils please donate them to Dudley Museum and Art Gallery, St James’
Road, Dudley, DY1 1HU. Please call 01384 815575 or visit www.dudley.gov.uk/dudleymuseum