Fossil Identification Form

Have you unearthed a fossil?

North Texas has a rich geological and paleontological history. Many of the specimens in the Museum’s collections were discovered by everyday folks who found something odd and wanted to have it identified. There are also things in nature that can look like they’re an ancient fossil of some kind but aren't.

Are you curious if you've stumbled upon a great discovery? Submit your pictures to our team of experts using the form below. Our research staff can usually identify a specimen based on a few clear photographs.

Important Information

1) We cannot make monetary appraisals of specimens.

2) We do not perform in-person identifications.

3) The Museum does not currently have an on-staff archeologist or anthropologist and cannot reliably identify cultural artifacts such as arrowheads, pottery, and jewelry.

4) Due to the volume of requests, it may take some time to receive a reply. Please be patient.

5) Remember to check your spam folder!

6) Please provide a valid email.

7) Please provide well-lit photos and multiple views if possible.

8) Please include a common object such as a coin or ruler for scale in the photos.

9) The more detail you provide below, the better we will be able to narrow down our identifications. Note that location information helps us figure out the possible age!

Name

Where did you find the object? Please provide as many of the following as possible: Country, state, county, distance to nearest city or landmark, closest road intersection.

Please list any other relevant clues that may aid in identification (examples: found in a stream, along a lake, dug out of rock or soil, or found on the surface, etc.)

Attachments

Most image formats (jpg, png) and office document formats (doc, ppt, pages) are allowed.