Families are being invited to discover the hidden wonders of the Isle of Wight’s coastline this Summer as popular ranger-led rock pooling and fossil hunting sessions return to Fort Victoria Country Park.
The guided activities, running throughout the school holidays, offer visitors and residents the chance to explore one of the Island’s richest shorelines for marine life, with opportunities to uncover everything from crabs, shrimps and anemones to fish, shells and other fascinating coastal creatures.
Alongside the rock pooling, participants can also search for fossils hidden among the shingle. The remains of ancient marine creatures such as sharks, fish, turtles and even crocodiles that once inhabited the area can be found.
The sessions will be led by Fort Victoria ranger, Anita Matheson, with special guest Dr Martin Munt, a leading fossil expert formerly of Dinosaur Isle Museum, joining several walks during the summer to share his knowledge and help visitors identify their finds.
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.”
With the sessions beginning later this month, you can find a full list of dates here.
Visitors are advised to wear suitable footwear for the beach and be prepared for uneven and sometimes slippery terrain.
