The Naked Scientists Podcast A 21st century guide to hunting dinosaur fossils
Aug 5, 2025
Phil Manning, a high-tech fossil expedition expert from the University of Manchester, discusses innovative tools like LiDAR that are revolutionizing dinosaur fossil hunting. David Norman, a paleontologist from Christ College, Cambridge, delves into the historical roots of the term 'dinosaur' and its evolution over time. Christy Curry-Rogers shares thrilling tales of excavating in remote areas, highlighting the blend of modern technology with traditional methods. Together, they explore the challenges and triumphs of unearthing the secrets of the prehistoric past.
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Origin of the Term Dinosaur
- The term "dinosaur" was coined in 1842 to classify a new category of ancient reptiles distinct from modern ones.
- This reflected a deepening understanding of Earth's prehistoric life and anatomy differences among fossil reptiles.
Revolution of Ground-Based LiDAR
- Ground-based LiDAR technology produces high-resolution 3D maps of dig sites, capturing bone positions and sediment textures.
- This digital model helps understand how fossils were deposited and guides future excavation efforts.
How to Protect Large Fossils
- Use plaster jacketing to protect large fossils during excavation and transport.
- Wrap the specimen and surrounding sediment in plaster-soaked burlap, then remove excess sediment to reduce weight.
