South Alabama Fossil Hunting
In 1961, students from the University of Alabama excavated farmland in Washington County, Alabama near Mobile. During this excavation, the students unearthed the largest skeleton of an extinct whale since the 1800's, drawing many locals to the area to view these finds. Today, many fossils can still be found across southern Alabama. A fossil dig in these areas can be both fun and educational.
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Significance
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Remains of whales may be found in an area of southern Alabama and eastern Mississippi. Geologists consider southwestern Alabama in particular to have exceptional numbers of zueglodon fossils, a type of extinct whale. A state geologist Eugene Allen Smith coined the term "Zeuglodon Beds" to describe the area.
Historical Find
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The first sizeable specimen of a zueglodon was located in Clarke County, Alabama in 1833. This county is approximately 40 miles north of Mobile, Alabama. The finding of this specimen soon prompted other paleontologists to explore the area according to Alabama Heritage.
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Museums
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Because of the influx of paleontologists who frequented southern Alabama after the historical find in 1833, many other sizable fossils and animal remains were located here. Because of the extensive digging in the southwestern corridor, many specimens were shipped to museums in Europe during the early 19th century. At least one of these collections could still be viewed in a German museum as late as the 1950's.
Andalusia
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One of the best locations in southern Alabama for fossil hunting is near the town of Andalusia. Andalusia is located in Covington County, Alabama near the Florida border. Point A Dam is located on the Conecuh River northwest of the town and is a popular fossil-hunting site. Here specimens such as fish vertebrae, fish teeth, shark's teeth, turtle shells and sea snakes may be found.
Other Locations
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Other locations in southern Alabama where fossil hunters may find treasures include the towns of Pittsview and Hurtsboro in Russell County. Crustaceans, shark's teeth and mollusks are commonly found here. In Barbour County near the town of Eufaula, prospectors may locate oysters and sawfish teeth. Near the town of Union Springs in Bullock County, oysters and shark's teeth may be found.
Digging
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The best fossil finds in southern Alabama will usually be found by digging into the clay soil approximately 4 inches. Fossil hunters can then place their digs into a 5-gallon bucket. After digging the material, you should take to a stream and use a screen to sift through the material in order to find the fossils underneath.
Safety
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Safety should always be a concern whenever digging for fossils. Always dig with a buddy and watch out for snakes and poison ivy. Wear thick-soled shoes with closed toes and heels to protect your feet. Make sure you have plenty of water with you so you can remain hydrated during your dig. Never dig on private property without first getting permission from the landowner.
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References
- Photo Credit stone texture with fossil animals image by Digital_Zombie from Fotolia.com
