Natural Sciences Museum

Natural Sciences MuseumNatural Sciences MuseumNatural Sciences Museum

Natural Sciences Museum

Natural Sciences MuseumNatural Sciences MuseumNatural Sciences Museum
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    • X-RAY IMAGING
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    • 3D PRINTING
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Excavation Services

Excavation Services Overview

The Natural Sciences Museum offers expert paleontological and zoo-archaeological excavation services, committed to uncovering and preserving the remains of past life while adhering to the highest industry standards. Our team of experienced paleontologists and zoo-archaeologists utilizes state-of-the-art techniques to provide comprehensive excavation and analysis services, from fieldwork through to final reporting. We specialize in fossil recovery, archaeological site excavation, and the study of animal remains, ensuring that every project is conducted with scientific rigor and professional integrity.


Our Excavation Services


We provide a full range of excavation services tailored to both paleontological and zoo-archaeological needs, ensuring a scientifically sound approach that meets the specific requirements of each project.


Paleontological Excavation


Our paleontologists specialize in the excavation of fossils, including vertebrates, invertebrates, and plant remains. Using precise and careful techniques, we recover specimens that help shed light on Earth’s ancient past. From large vertebrates to microscopic fossils, every specimen is treated with care to ensure its preservation for future study.


Zoo-Archaeological Excavation


Zoo-archaeology focuses on the excavation and analysis of animal remains found in archaeological contexts. We specialize in recovering animal bones, shells, and other organic materials to provide insights into ancient diets, domestication practices, and ecosystems. Our team helps reconstruct past environments and human-animal interactions through these important biological remains.


Ethical Standards and Professionalism


Our excavation services follow the Standards and Guidance set by the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists (CIfA), ensuring that every excavation adheres to professional standards for documentation, conservation, and analysis. We take pride in our commitment to ethical excavation practices, safeguarding the integrity of sites while contributing to scientific knowledge.


Licensing and Certifications


We hold a range of licenses and certifications to ensure that our excavations are carried out with the highest safety and professional standards. These include:

  • Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS)
  • NPORS Operator
  • Civil Aviation Authority Drone Operator (ID: GBR-OP-D2X6D68MXCDL)

These licenses enable us to carry out a variety of excavation tasks, including drone surveying and imagery, machinery operation, and safe access to construction sites. We use cutting-edge technology to improve the efficiency and precision of our excavations, ensuring a thorough and comprehensive approach to every project.


Why Choose Us?


  • Expertise: Our team consists of highly trained professionals with extensive experience in paleontology, zoo-archaeology, and excavation.
  • State-of-the-Art Equipment: We utilize advanced technology such as drones for aerial surveying and X-ray imaging, ensuring the most precise and detailed results.
  • Comprehensive Support: From initial consultation to post-excavation analysis and reporting, we offer full support at every stage of the excavation process.
  • Ethical and Safe Practices: Adhering to CIfA guidelines and holding the necessary licenses and certifications, we ensure that all work is conducted with care, safety, and professionalism.


How We Work


  1. Initial Consultation and Site Assessment
    We begin by discussing your project and conducting a site assessment to understand your needs. Our experts evaluate the area, providing recommendations for how best to approach the excavation and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations.
  2. Planning and Permitting
    We help you develop a detailed excavation plan, ensuring that all permits and approvals are obtained. This includes working closely with local authorities and following ethical guidelines for responsible excavation.
  3. Excavation and Data Collection
    Our skilled team carries out the excavation, using scientific methods to ensure the proper recovery and documentation of fossils or animal remains. We utilize modern equipment such as drones for aerial surveys, and safely operate machinery for efficient and precise work.
  4. Post-Excavation Analysis and Reporting
    After the excavation, we provide comprehensive analysis of the findings, including cataloging, conserving, and interpreting the specimens. Detailed reports are generated, which can be used for academic research, publications, or public displays.
  5. Dissemination of Results
    We offer support in sharing the findings with relevant stakeholders, whether through exhibitions, publications, or digital platforms, ensuring that the results of your excavation are widely available to both the scientific community and the public.


Get in Touch


If you are planning an excavation, or need expert support in uncovering and preserving animal remains, contact us today. Our team is equipped with the skills, knowledge, and licenses required to carry out thorough, ethical, and safe excavations.


For more information, or to schedule a consultation, please contact us. We look forward to working with you on your next excavation project.

Useful Links

Codes of Conduct 

West Dorset Fossil Collecting Code of Conduct

Undercliffs NNR Fossil Collecting Code

Rother Fossil Collecting Code

Watchet Fossil Collecting Code

Thanet Coast Fossil Code

Scottish Fossil Code


UNESCO Sites 

UNESCO World Heritage Convention

Jurassic Coast UNESCO World Heritage Site

Dorset and East Devon Coast World Heritage Site

UK UNESCO Global Geoparks


SSSI Sites

Managing SSSI Sites

Investigating SSSI Sites

Sites of Special Scientific Interest (England) Map

Sites of Special Scientific Interest (Wales) Map


Planning Policy

National Planning Policy Framework

Town and Country Planning Act (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 2017


Planning Guidance

Guide to the Planning System

NPPF Planning Practice Guidance 

Environmental Stewardship Guidance 


Other Relevant Links

Chartered Institute for Archaeologists

Palaeontological Association

Natural England

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