A new book dedicated to British Cenozoic fossils will be available later this month. Entitled “A Field Guide to Collecting British Cenozoic Fossils”, it launches exclusively on Amazon from 14th February (2026). This colourful and informative guide is expected to attract fossil collectors and natural history enthusiasts alike.
This engaging and informative 190-page book is printed in full colour throughout. Moreover, it features stunning location photography and hundreds of fossil images. These clear photographs help readers identify potential discoveries. As a result, the book provides a practical resource for both beginners and experienced collectors.
The front cover of the book “A Field Guide to Collecting British Cenozoic Fossils”. Picture credit: Steve Snowball and Alister Cruickshanks.
Picture credit: Steve Snowball and Alister Cruickshanks
Exploring British Cenozoic Fossils in Detail
The guide focuses on the best fossil hunting locations across southern and eastern England. Importantly, each site is described clearly and accurately. In addition, the book includes up-to-date geological charts and detailed diagrams. Readers will also find site information and simple directions to fossil-bearing strata.
The book has been co-authored by fossil expert Steve Snowball and Alister Cruickshanks. Two well-known and highly respected individuals within the fossil hunting and fossil preparation industry. I am keen to read more about the extensive fossil collecting opportunities on the coast of East Anglia. For example, the book contains a comprehensive inventory of the invertebrate fossils associated with the Coralline Crag Formation of Suffolk.
A selection of typical fossils associated with the famous Coralline Crag Formation of Suffolk (eastern England). Picture credit: Steve Snowball and Alister Cruickshanks.
Picture credit: Steve Snowball and Alister Cruickshanks
Digging into Doggerland
Furthermore, the book benefits from contributions by renowned palaeontologist Dick Mol. Often nicknamed “Sir Mammoth”, Dick Mol has received a knighthood from Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands. He earned this honour following forty years of research into mammoths and Pleistocene animals. In particular, he shares his expertise on Doggerland, the prehistoric landmass now beneath the North Sea.
An article from 2022 examining the research of Dick Mol and colleagues exploring the ancient Doggerland landscape: Searching for Settlements Under the Sea.
Everything Dinosaur has reviewed several books by Steve Snowball previously. His publications consistently provide accurate information and clear guidance for fossil collectors. Therefore, this latest release continues his reputation for producing reliable field guides.
For instance, in 2025, Steve in collaboration with Heather Middleton, produced an excellent guide to the fossils associated with the beautiful Fleet Lagoon of Dorset: A Fleet Lagoon Fossil Hunting Guide.
Stunning Artwork Brings Prehistoric Britain to Life
The book features detailed illustrations created by Andreas Kurpisz. These illustrations recreate ancient environments based on the fossil record. For example, one dramatic scene in the book shows a temperate Early Pleistocene landscape in Norfolk.
Early Pleistocene in Norfolk. A dead southern mammoth, Mammuthus meridionalis, is being scavenged by a European sabre cat, Homotherium crenatidens. A pack of giant short-faced hyaenas, Pachycrocruta brevirostris, challenges the claim to the prize, overlooked by an Etruscan rhinoceros, Stephanorhinus hundsheimensis. Picture credit: Andreas Kurpisz.
Picture credit: Andreas Kurpisz
Another illustration depicts a herd of Mammuthus primigenius. These woolly mammoths interrupt a cave lion’s ambush attempt. The intended prey is a majestic giant Irish elk, Megaloceros giganteus. Consequently, these scenes help readers visualise the animals linked to British Cenozoic fossils.
An Author with an Outstanding Reputation
This new book will prove to be a valuable resource for fossil collectors. It builds on an impressive list of previous publications from the author.
Mike from Everything Dinosaur commented:
“Steve Snowball has built an outstanding reputation through his extensive experience and deep knowledge of British fossil sites. We are delighted to welcome this informative and beautifully illustrated guide. It will inspire collectors and help many people explore British Cenozoic fossils with confidence.”
Unfortunate timing! A herd of Woolly Mammoths (M. primigenius) impedes the attack of a cave lion (Panthera spelaean), on a Megaloceros. In the chaos, the deer makes its escape. Picture credit: Andreas Kurpisz.
Picture credit: Andreas Kurpisz
“A Field Guide to Collecting British Cenozoic Fossils” is priced at £21.99. The book offers practical advice, scientific accuracy, and engaging visuals. Additionally, its clear layout makes it easy to use when out fossil hunting.
For anyone interested in British Cenozoic Fossils, this new guide represents a valuable addition to their fossil hunting library. Find it on Amazon.
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