How are dinosaur fossils formed?
-
Audience
Children and families, Early years, Primary school -
Learning stage
Early years, Early Stage 1, Stage 1, Stage 2 -
Learning area
Science -
Type
Learning resources
On this page...
Fossils are formed in different ways, but most are formed when a plant or animal dies in a watery environment and is buried in mud and silt. Soft tissues quickly decompose leaving the hard bones or shells behind. Over time sediment builds over the top and hardens into rock. Scientists learn about dinosaurs through the fossil evidence they have left behind which might be a fossilised bone, tooth, footprint or even poo!
Watch this animation to understand how dinosaurs became fossils over time.
