Trilobite Hunt at Seven Stars Quarry

Search for trilobites at this private quarry with members of our NHSM Fossil Club. The mostly shale rock from the Middle Devonian Mahantango Formation is home to a diverse set of prehistoric life including brachiopods, bryozoans, mollusks, corals, graptolites, and even cephalopods, squid-like animals with shells.

Trilobites, the site’s main draw, originate from one of the earliest groups of arthropods, the phylum which includes insects, spiders, and centipedes on land and crabs, lobsters, and barnacles in water. They were one of the most successful of all early animals, existing in oceans for almost 270 million years, with over 22,000 species found. Trilobites finally disappeared in the Permian-Triassic extinction about 251.9 million years ago.

Surface collecting, digging, and chiseling are methods used for the hunt here.

Remember

• Hand tools only. This could include hammer, chisel, shovel, hammer, tribar, and buckets.

• Dress according to the weather. Layers with non-cotton clothing work best. For sunny days, a hat with a brim may be needed.

• Wear sturdy closed-toe hiking boots or sneakers with non-slip soles that can safely handle slippery surfaces.

• Bring water, snacks, sunblock, and bug spray.

• Bring your guidebooks.

The exact meeting space will be provided when registration and payment are complete. We will meet at a nearby restaurant and caravan to the site, about 30 minutes away.

Cancellation Policy: NHSM Field Experiences – Cancellations made seven or more days in advance of the field experience will receive a refund (minus a $5 processing fee). Cancellations made within the week of the event will not receive a refund but can be transferred to a friend.

For questions, please email Jayne at JAsh@marylandnature.org.