So You Wanna Be Indiana Bones...But With Less Nazis and a Permit? Obtaining Your Florida Fossil Hunting License
Ever since you were knee-high to a velociraptor, scouring the backyard for "dinosaur bones" (probably just pebbles, let's be honest), you've dreamt of unearthing the next Tyrannosaurus Rex. Well, Florida might just be the treasure trove your inner paleontologist craves, but hold on to your pith helmet – you'll need a permit to legally unearth the Sunshine State's prehistoric bounty.
The Great Fossil Grab: Public vs. Private Property
First things first, aspiring Indiana Bones: fossil hunting on private property doesn't require a permit. Just be sure to snag permission from the landowner before you go Indiana-ing all over their stuff. They might not appreciate you leaving a T-Rex sized crater in their prize-winning petunia patch.
However, if you're itching to explore public lands for prehistoric prizes, then buckle up, because a Florida Fossil Permit is your golden ticket.
Permit Pointers: A Dig into the Details
Obtaining your fossil hunting license is easier than outrunning a velociraptor in high heels (although that would be an impressive feat). Here's the lowdown:
- The Price of Paleo-Progress: A Florida Fossil Permit will set you back a cool $5. That's less than a latte, so ditch the caffeine and embrace the thrill of the fossil hunt!
- Permit Powerhouse: The Florida Museum of Natural History is your one-stop shop for permits. You can apply online or, if you're feeling social, snag one in person (by appointment only) at their research building, Dickinson Hall.
- Paper Trail Time: The application process is a breeze. Fill out the form, attach a photocopy of your ID (driver's license, passport, you get the idea), and a check or money order for $5 made payable to the University of Florida. Don't send cash, and for the love of all things prehistoric, remember to sign your check.
- Digital Digits: You might even score a digital PDF of your permit via email! Just be sure to check your spam folder – sometimes those prehistoric emails get lost in the digital jungle.
Important Note: Be prepared for a slight delay – due to staffing issues, processing times might take a bit longer than usual. Patience, my fellow fossil fanatic, patience!
Fossil Finds and Reporting Responsibilities: Because Sharing is Caring (Especially for Science)
Now that you're officially a permit-holding paleontologist (well, amateur one, but hey, you gotta start somewhere!), here's the nitty-gritty:
- Shark Teeth? No Sweat: Florida's got a treasure trove of prehistoric shark teeth. The good news? You can snag these chompers without a permit. Just remember, with great shark tooth collecting power comes great responsibility – don't be greedy! Leave some for the next aspiring paleontologist.
- Beyond the Tooth: Unearthing anything other than a shark tooth (think mammoth tusks, ancient whale bones) requires that super-important Florida Fossil Permit.
- Reporting for Duty: Think of yourself as a fossil Indiana Jones, but with a clipboard. You're required to report your vertebrate fossil finds to the Florida Museum of Natural History. This helps scientists track Florida's prehistoric past.
- The Big One: If your find is deemed scientifically significant, the state might have the right to claim it. Hey, that's the price of scientific discovery, my friend! (Although, let's be honest, how likely are you to unearth the next Tyrannosaurus Rex in your backyard?)
Bonus Tip: Always be a responsible fossil hunter. Respect the environment, fill in any holes you create, and leave no trace (except for your footprints, of course).
Fossil Frequently Asked Questions: Your Mini-Paleo Manual
How to find a place to fossil hunt?
Public beaches, riverbeds, and some state parks (check regulations first!) are great places to start your fossil hunting adventure.
How to identify a fossil?
The Florida Museum of Natural History has a handy guide to help you distinguish a genuine fossil from a plain old rock https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/16/2017/03/Fossil-Hall-Educators-Guide.pdf.
How to collect fossils responsibly?
Use appropriate tools (small trowels, brushes), and avoid damaging the fossils or the surrounding environment.
How to report a fossil find?
Download the Florida Museum of Natural History's Fossil Permit Reporting Form
