Fossil Leaf UV Light
I found this fossil leaf (Poplar??) about 8 miles north of Dubois Wyoming in the TeePee Trail Shale Formation. (Paleogene 65-22 mya). After researching the literature for a likely location for an outcrop, went out exploring. It didn’t take me long to find an outcrop of the shale which can be split with hammers easily. After a few hours of splitting shale, this and many other fossils came out. For a scale, the photo covers an area about 5 inches across/high.
I used high intensity UV light as the only light source here to bring out subtle details in the veins of the leaves. I look at pretty much everything under UV as you just never know what it’s going to do. Here it brought out details you just can’t see in white light. This UV light is so bright, I have to wear special sunglasses to use it. It’s a good way to sunburn your retinas if you don’t do this right lolol.
There is no law against collecting plant fossils on BLM or state land so have at it folks. I think there is some limitations on using heavy equipment though lol. Only shovels, picks and hand tools. See the BLM website for details if you plan on collecting anything from federal or state property. Private property only has rules the land owner imposes. Land owners own the fossils unless you have specific OK to take them and preferably in writing.
Location: currently residing at: Bliss DInosaur Ranch, Wyoming/Montana borderlands.
Title: Fossil Leaf UV Light