Fossils of belemnites and ammonites, Jurassic Coast, Dorset, England

© Nature Picture Library/Alam

Unearthing the past. National Fossil Day

If you're a fan of dinosaurs, trilobites, or fossilized shells, then National Fossil Day is the perfect excuse to get your hands dirty. Celebrated on the second Wednesday of October, this day is dedicated to promoting the scientific and educational value of fossils. From towering T. rexes to tiny ammonites, these ancient remains help scientists piece together the puzzle of our planet's history.

Let's visit the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Dorset, England, pictured here today. It's like a giant natural history museum, with rocks and cliffs that reveal 185 million years of Earth's history. But what really steals the show are the fossils, especially those of belemnites and ammonites—extinct marine creatures—that are pictured here. Mary Anning, a pioneering fossil hunter who combed these shores two centuries ago, paved the way for our current understanding of fossils. Now, it's your turn. Embrace National Fossil Day by embarking on your own journey through time.