Using the Collections Data

A part of the Savin collection at the Natural History Museum.The collections featured on this site are from the early 19th century through to the present day. Developments in scientific knowledge and methods mean that there is much to do to produce standardisation, so always check for anachronisms.

The 'Search' option in this 'Collections' section provides a way to look for information. Look at the options on the dialogue box of the 'Search Box' page to see the sort of questions you can ask. There are general search tools for those who are familiar with database search methods, there is a set of pre-defined questions and there are options to look for specific collections. Any of these selections can be combined in a search.

Where there is reasonable location data for specimens, then this is included in the records and can produce maps. There are two support sheets available to help with the way the mapping is accessed. If you are looking to find where a particular fossil was found, the mapping location of a specimen document will help, and if you want to see how to map a selection of fossils was found this document will help.

Bear in mind that there are a number of issues that my affect what you discover.

• This is a developing database with data being added as available.
• It includes data gathered over two centuries, Scientific method and scientific terminology have changed over that time.
• Methods of providing a location have developed from a general description to a precise latitude and longitude location.
• Fossils have been moved by the action of waves and ice.

Nevertheless, we hope that the analytical tools will be helpful to you.