Kirsty Edgar
banner
kirstymedgar.bsky.social
Kirsty Edgar
@kirstymedgar.bsky.social
Prof. of Micropalaeontology & Head of Research in School of GEES at University of Birmingham, President of The Micropalaeontological Society. Forams, palaeoclimates, sometimes dinosaurs, geoheritage.
Sites values represent only a snapshot & may vary as sites evolve &/or are developed. Regular, high-quality monitoring & recording, & open access data is key to the successful management & communication of sites for the benefit of all.
January 19, 2025 at 7:51 PM
Overall, we find that current UK track sites are variously recorded & used, offering potential for new scientific & cultural activities.
January 19, 2025 at 7:51 PM
In contrast, dinosaur track sites at Spyway Quarry, Dorset & Hanover Point, Isle of Wight have relatively low scientific value but high cultural value as they can be easily found & well communicated.
January 19, 2025 at 7:51 PM
Arguably, the most scientifically important UK sites include Bendrick Rock (artwork by @markwitton.bsky.social shown), South Wales, Ardley Quarry, Oxfordshire & Hastings, East Sussex but these may be challenging to access and/or communication of the site in the public space lacking.
January 19, 2025 at 7:51 PM
Today, in the UK, you can encounter in-situ dinosaur tracks in England, Scotland, & Wales that span the Late Triassic through Early Cretaceous. We describe & score key localities against different measures of scientific & cultural value using the late Martin Lockley’s approach.
January 19, 2025 at 7:51 PM
Dinosaur track sites are an important part of the UK's heritage that can expand our knowledge of past ecosystems & engage the public. Ensuring appropriate protection, regulation & communication of this finite natural resource is important.
January 19, 2025 at 7:51 PM