Otterpool Quarry facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
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| Area of Search | Kent |
|---|---|
| Interest | Geological |
| Area | 10.2 hectares (25 acres) |
| Notification | 1984 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Otterpool Quarry is a special place in Kent, England, known for its important rocks and fossils. It's officially called a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) because of its unique geology. This site covers about 10.2 hectares, which is roughly the size of 25 football fields! It was recognized as an SSSI in 1984.
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What Makes Otterpool Quarry Special?
Otterpool Quarry is a significant location for studying Earth's history. It's part of a group of sites called Geological Conservation Review sites. These are places chosen because they show important examples of British geology.
Rocks from the Cretaceous Period
The rocks found at Otterpool Quarry date back to the Cretaceous period. This was a very long time ago, between 145 and 66 million years ago! During this time, dinosaurs roamed the Earth, and the first flowering plants appeared. The quarry shows where two different rock layers meet: the Hythe beds and the Sandgate beds. These are both part of a larger group of rocks called the Lower Greensand Group.
Amazing Ammonite Fossils
One of the most exciting things about Otterpool Quarry is its amazing collection of ammonite fossils. Ammonites were ancient sea creatures that looked a bit like snails with coiled shells. They lived in the oceans millions of years ago, at the same time as the dinosaurs.
- What are fossils? Fossils are the preserved remains or traces of ancient life. They help scientists understand what life was like millions of years ago.
- Why are these ammonites important? The ammonites found at Otterpool Quarry are very special. Scientists can use them to figure out the exact age of the rocks. They can also compare these ammonites to others found in different parts of the world. This helps them match up rock layers across continents.
Access to Otterpool Quarry
It's important to know that Otterpool Quarry is on private land. This means there is no public access for visitors. Also, the quarry has been filled in over time. Because of this, the interesting rock layers and fossils that were once visible can no longer be seen.
