Rock Pooling And Fossil Hunting Sessions Return To Fort Victoria This Summer

Families are being invited to explore the Isle of Wight's coastline this summer as ranger-led rock pooling and fossil hunting sessions return to Fort Victoria Country Park.

Running throughout the school holidays, the guided sessions offer the chance to discover marine life including crabs, shrimps, anemones, fish and shells, while also searching for fossils hidden among the shingle.

Participants may even uncover the remains of ancient marine creatures such as sharks, fish, turtles and crocodiles.

The sessions will once again be led by Fort Victoria ranger Anita Matheson, with former Dinosaur Isle Museum fossil expert Dr Martin Munt joining selected walks to help visitors identify their discoveries.

Anita said:

"The beach here is such a fascinating place, there is so much to look for, whether it is shore crabs, shells, fossils or some of the many other creatures that call this coastline home.

"We're also delighted Dr Martin Munt will be joining some of the sessions this summer.

"His knowledge of the Isle of Wight's fossils and geology adds another fascinating dimension to the walks."

The activities take place between late July and the end of August, lasting between one hour and 90 minutes.

There is no need to book in advance, although numbers may be limited. The cost is £3 per person or £10 for a family, with cash payments requested.

Visitors are asked to meet outside the Rangers Office at Fort Victoria Country Park before each session and wear suitable footwear for the uneven and sometimes slippery shoreline.