Fossil Large Reptile Bones Block Aust Cliff Westbury Formation Upper Triassic Bristol UK

Description

Genuine Fossil Reptile Bones from Aust Cliff

This is an exceptional specimen containing large reptile bones preserved in a block from the world-famous fish, reptile, and coprolite bed at Aust Cliff, Bristol, UK. The fossil comes from the Upper Triassic Westbury Formation of the Penarth Group, a classic and historically important fossil locality. Carefully chosen for its preservation and scientific value, this block presents clear evidence of Triassic vertebrate remains from one of Britain’s most significant geological sites. The photographs show the exact specimen you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube provided for accurate size reference.

Geological Age and Provenance

The specimen originates from the Upper Triassic, around 208–201 million years ago, a critical time in Earth’s history leading up to the Triassic–Jurassic extinction event. The Westbury Formation, exposed at Aust Cliff, is a fossil-rich deposit within the Penarth Group, yielding a diverse assemblage of vertebrate remains. Aust Cliff has been studied for more than a century and is internationally recognised as one of the most important Late Triassic vertebrate localities in Europe. The site is particularly known for producing bones of marine reptiles, fish remains, and abundant coprolites, providing a unique record of life during this period.

Reptilian Remains and Morphological Features

The block contains well-preserved reptile bones, representing larger vertebrates that once inhabited the Triassic seas and coastal lagoons. Fossil bones from the Westbury Formation may include remains of marine reptiles such as ichthyosaurs and plesiosaurs, as well as terrestrial reptiles occasionally transported into the deposit. The larger size of the preserved fragments in this specimen makes it especially appealing, as it provides a tangible connection to the formidable reptiles that thrived during the Upper Triassic. These bones retain identifiable textures and structures that highlight their origin from higher vertebrates rather than fish or invertebrates.

Depositional Environment and Scientific Importance

The fish, reptile, and coprolite bed of the Westbury Formation was deposited in a marginal marine to lagoonal setting, where vertebrate remains accumulated in low-oxygen environments conducive to fossilisation. Periodic storm activity and shifting conditions transported and buried the remains of large reptiles, fish, and other animals, preserving them within fine sediments. This unique environment ensured that not only bones but also coprolites and smaller vertebrate elements were preserved in association, giving palaeontologists rare insights into the complete food web of the Upper Triassic seas. Specimens such as this provide evidence of the biodiversity and ecological dynamics of the time, just before one of the greatest mass extinctions in Earth’s history.

Discovery and Preparation

This specimen was discovered on the 7th of April 2025 by our experienced field team, Alister and Alison, at Aust Cliff. Following collection, the block was carefully cleaned, stabilised, and treated by Alison to preserve the integrity of the fossil bone fragments. Preparation has revealed the natural details of the reptile remains while maintaining the authenticity and scientific accuracy of the specimen. No artificial enhancements have been applied, ensuring a completely genuine fossil.

Authenticity and Collectability

All of our fossils are guaranteed 100% genuine specimens and come with a Certificate of Authenticity. Fossil reptile bones from Aust Cliff are highly collectible due to their rarity, scientific importance, and the reputation of the site as a world-class Triassic fossil locality. This specimen offers collectors, educators, and researchers alike a rare opportunity to own a piece of vertebrate history from the Upper Triassic. The presence of large reptile bones in a single block ensures it is both scientifically significant and visually striking, making it a standout addition to any fossil collection.