Major palaeontological find at Grange Top Quarry
Discovery highlights important role quarrying plays in uncovering palaeontological history
HEIDELBERG Materials’ Grange Top Quarry in Rutland, which is adjacent to the company’s Ketton cement works, has become the site of a major palaeontological find, as remains of a 170-million-year-old pterosaur from the Middle Jurassic period have been uncovered.
A large, hollow bone from the pterosaur (a flying reptile) was found within the layers of Lincolnshire limestone, shedding new light on the prehistoric life that once soared above the Rutland countryside, and highlighting the important role that quarrying plays in uncovering archaeological history.
Grange Top quarry manager Aurelien Colas said: ‘It’s truly exciting to see how the quarry has allowed for further understanding of Rutland’s prehistoric past. Without quarrying, these fossils would likely never be found as they are buried so deep beneath layers of rocks.’
As well as being unusually large, it is the first pterosaur bone in the world dating from the Bajocian age, a period of time in the Middle Jurassic about 170 million years ago. It is also thought to be the first pterosaur find ever recorded in Rutland.
The fossil was discovered by the Peterborough Geological and Palaeontological Group (PGPG), which regularly visits the quarry on weekends to carry out fieldwork, accompanied by quarry operative David Whittington.
Reflecting Heidelberg Materials commitment to contributing to the local community’s scientific and archaeological heritage, the pterosaur fossil has been donated to Rutland County Museum in Oakham, where it will be on display by the end of the year.
Penny Sharp, director for places at Rutland County Council, said: ‘It’s tremendous to have yet another major discovery, following hot on the heels of the Rutland Water ichthyosaur and 4th century Roman mosaic that have already been unearthed in the county. We’re excited that Rutland County Museum will be home to the pterosaur find and are looking forward to it going on display.’
