Found a Fossil

Paperback - May 2026 - AU $39.99

Explore the stories behind fossils and heritage objects, and the importance of preserving them.

What would you do if you discovered a fossil? + Full description

Imagine stumbling upon a fossil or an Indigenous artefact during a walk in the bush, on a quiet beach or across your family farm – what would you do next? While fossils and artefacts are different in their formation, preservation and significance, they’re both part of the incredible array of heritage objects and sites we can find across the Australian landscape.

Found a Fossil bridges the gap between curiosity and action, providing an accessible guide to uncovering Australia’s rich prehistoric and cultural heritage. Combining palaeontology, archaeology and science communication, this book explores the stories behind fossils and Indigenous artefacts, how they connect us to the past and the responsibilities we hold in preserving them.

Drawing from the groundbreaking Found a Fossil Project, palaeontologist Sally Hurst shares her research and engaging stories of Australian fossils and dinosaurs, her experiences doing fieldwork and the curious finds people sometimes send her.

Whether you’re a seasoned science enthusiast or a curious newcomer, Found a Fossil offers a fascinating journey into Australia’s deep past – and the role you can play in safeguarding its future.

- Short description

Details

Paperback | May 2026 | $ 39.99
ISBN: 9781486319695 | 224 pages | 205 x 150 mm
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Colour illustrations, Colour photographs



Features

  • Provides practical advice on what to do if you find a fossil as well as guidelines for Indigenous artefacts.
  • Features engaging fieldwork insights and behind-the-scenes stories from dig sites around the globe.
  • Explores Australia’s unique fossil record, showcasing its prehistoric past and rich heritage.

Contents

Foreword
Geological timescale
Preface
Acknowledgements
About the author
1 Introduction
2 Fossils, artefacts and why we care
3 The Found a Fossil survey and website
4 What to do if you find a dinosaur in your backyard
5 What if my find is just a rock?
6 Australian fossils
7 Human–fossil relationships
8 Adventures in Australian fieldwork
9 International fieldwork
10 Encouraging curiosity
11 Finding fossils and unearthing unknowns
Appendix
Glossary
References
Index

Authors

Sally K. Hurst is a palaeontologist and archaeologist researching the interactions between humans and fossils. She’s the creator of the Found a Fossil Project, and a passionate science communicator.