Abbey Wood SSSI, Geological Site of Special Scientific Interest in Abbey Wood, London
Abbey Wood SSSI is a protected geological area within Lesnes Abbey Woods in London that preserves rock layers from an ancient period of Earth's history. The site contains remains of long-extinct animals that lived tens of millions of years ago.
The site became notable for revealing ancient animal remains from a time when the same creatures lived across what is now Britain and North America. These findings demonstrate how life and the landscape transformed over vast stretches of time.
This place draws researchers and fossil enthusiasts who come to study ancient life forms and share knowledge about prehistoric creatures. The site serves as a meeting point for people interested in geology and natural history, making it a working center for scientific curiosity.
Access to the fossil excavation area requires advance permission from the woods ranger before beginning any digging work. Visitors should come prepared for outdoor work in a wooded setting with appropriate clothing and basic tools.
The site is home to one of Britain's rarest fossil bird discoveries, a large ancient seabird that few places have ever yielded. This finding reveals how different and rich prehistoric animal life was in this region.
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