Today, November the 30th is St Andrew’s Day.  We celebrate the patron saint of Scotland and that country’s contribution to palaeontology and geology.  The rugged landscapes of Scotland reveal some remarkable geology.  Indeed, researchers have uncovered some of the world’s most significant fossil sites in the land formerly known as Caledonia. For example, sedimentary rocks found on the Isle of Skye date from the Middle Jurassic and fossil discoveries have provided evidence of a unique dinosaur biota.  Furthermore, fossils of early mammals and unique pterosaurs have been discovered.

In 2022, a new rhamphorhynchid pterosaur was described from fossil remains found on the east coast of the Trottenish peninsula on the Isle of Skye (Lealt Shale Formation).  The new pterosaur was named Dearc sgiathanach.  Earlier this year, CollectA introduced a 1:3 scale replica of this Middle Jurassic pterosaur.

To view the CollectA Deluxe range available from Everything Dinosaur: Scale Models of Prehistoric Animals.

The CollectA Deluxe Dearc pterosaur model.

To read about the legal protection now offered to the Isle of Skye fossil sites: Fossil Sites on Skye to get Legal Protection.

Famous for Palaeontology and Geology

In 2015, the British Geological Society asked the public to vote for their favourite geology related sites in the UK and Ireland. Three of the top five locations are found in Scotland. The basaltic columns of Staffa and Siccar Point were voted number five and three respectively. The favourite location as voted for in this survey was also Scottish. The Foreland Mountains Assynt (Sutherland, Scotland) with its breath-taking isolated mountains was the number one location.

Voted number one in the British Geological Society Survey. Picture credit: the British Geological Society.

Picture credit: Picture credit: British Geological Society

To read more about this survey: Celebrating Earth Science Week Top 100 Fascinating Geology Locations.

Famous Scientists

Moreover, Scotland has produced influential figures in the field of geology, including Sir Charles Lyell, regarded by many as the founder of modern geology. As we honour St. Andrew today, let us also acknowledge Scotland’s vital role in advancing our understanding of our planet’s past, shaping both science and a nation’s identity.

Visit the award-winning Everything Dinosaur website: Prehistoric Animal Models.