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

Description

Authentic Large Fossil Reptile Bones from Aust Cliff

This specimen is a genuine block containing large reptile bones from the world-renowned fish, reptile, and coprolite bed at Aust Cliff, near Bristol, UK. The fossil originates from the Upper Triassic Westbury Formation of the Penarth Group, a globally important deposit celebrated for its rich vertebrate assemblages. Carefully selected for its preservation and scientific significance, this block highlights substantial reptilian remains that offer a rare and fascinating glimpse into life over 200 million years ago. The photographs show the exact specimen you will receive, with a 1 cm scale cube included for accurate sizing.

Geological Age and Provenance

This fossil dates to the Upper Triassic period, approximately 208–201 million years ago. The Westbury Formation, part of the Penarth Group, represents one of the last Triassic deposits before the dawn of the Jurassic period. The deposits at Aust Cliff have been studied for more than a century and remain one of the most important Upper Triassic vertebrate sites in Europe. This location preserves an extraordinary diversity of fossil material, including fish teeth, reptile bones, coprolites, and occasional complete skeletal fragments. Such fossils provide critical evidence for understanding ecosystems prior to the Triassic–Jurassic mass extinction, one of the most dramatic events in Earth’s history.

Reptile Bone Features and Scientific Value

The block contains large bone fragments from reptiles that once inhabited the Triassic seas and lagoons. These remains are most likely from marine reptiles such as ichthyosaurs or plesiosaurs, both of which are well known from the Westbury Formation. Their skeletal structures were adapted for powerful swimming, with strong bones supporting streamlined bodies built for predation. The preserved bones in this block retain the texture and density characteristic of higher vertebrates, making them scientifically valuable for studying reptile anatomy and evolution. Fossils of this size from Aust Cliff are relatively rare, making this a particularly desirable specimen for collectors and researchers.

Depositional Environment and Preservation

The famous fish, reptile, and coprolite bed at Aust Cliff formed in a shallow marine to lagoonal setting. Vertebrate remains were deposited during storm events and buried quickly in fine sediments, protecting them from scavengers and decay. Periods of low oxygen at the seabed further enhanced preservation, allowing even delicate fossils to survive. The accumulation of reptile bones, fish remains, and coprolites together in one bed offers an unparalleled look at the biodiversity and food web of the Late Triassic. The preservation of large reptile bones in this block is a testament to the exceptional conditions of the Westbury Formation.

Discovery and Preparation

This specimen was discovered on the 7th of April 2025 by our experienced field team members, Alister and Alison, during a fossil-collecting expedition to Aust Cliff. After recovery, it was meticulously cleaned, stabilised, and treated by Alison to ensure its preservation and to enhance the natural visibility of the bone material. The specimen has been left in its natural state without artificial alterations, ensuring both authenticity and scientific accuracy.

Authenticity and Collectability

All of our fossils are guaranteed 100% genuine and are supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity. Large reptile bones from Aust Cliff are highly collectible due to their rarity, provenance, and importance for understanding Triassic life. This specimen represents a tangible connection to the great predators of the Upper Triassic seas, making it a standout piece for private collectors, educational use, or museum display. Its impressive preservation and origin from one of Britain’s most famous fossil sites ensure that it is both a scientifically significant and visually striking addition to any fossil collection.