In an extraordinary discovery that's rewriting prehistoric history, archaeologists have uncovered a collection of perfectly preserved dinosaur footprints in an Oxfordshire quarry, dating back an astonishing 166 million years.
The footprints, found at Ardley Quarry near Bicester, represent some of the most detailed and well-preserved dinosaur traces ever discovered in the United Kingdom. The site has been described by experts as a 'Jurassic goldmine' that provides an unprecedented window into life during the Middle Jurassic period.
A Prehistoric Time Capsule
What makes this discovery particularly remarkable is the exceptional quality of preservation. Unlike many fossilised footprints that show only basic outlines, these impressions capture intricate details including scales, claws and skin textures of the ancient creatures that made them.
Dr Tim Atkinson, the lead archaeologist on the project, expressed his amazement: 'We've never seen preservation this good in the UK. These footprints are so detailed we can see the individual scales on the dinosaurs' feet - it's like they walked through mud yesterday rather than 166 million years ago.'
The Megalosaurus Connection
Analysis suggests the footprints belong to Megalosaurus, a large carnivorous dinosaur that roamed what is now Oxfordshire during the Jurassic period. The three-toed prints measure approximately 50-60 centimetres in length, indicating these were substantial predators.
'Finding footprints of this quality allows us to understand not just what these dinosaurs looked like, but how they moved and behaved,' explained Dr Atkinson. 'We can see evidence of walking, turning, and even social behaviour patterns.'
From Working Quarry to Scientific Treasure
The discovery occurred during routine quarrying operations, when workers noticed the unusual markings in the stone layers. Immediate work was halted, and archaeological experts were brought in to assess the find.
Remarkably, this isn't the first significant discovery at Ardley Quarry. The site has previously yielded important fossil finds, but none with the level of detail seen in these latest footprints.
Preserving Oxfordshire's Prehistoric Heritage
Local authorities and heritage organisations are now working together to protect and study the site. There are discussions about creating a protected viewing area or potentially relocating some prints to museums for public display and further research.
'This discovery puts Oxfordshire firmly on the map for prehistoric research,' said a spokesperson for Oxfordshire County Council. 'It's a reminder that beneath our feet lies evidence of creatures that ruled this land millions of years before humans arrived.'
The findings are expected to contribute significantly to our understanding of dinosaur distribution and behaviour in Jurassic Britain, offering fresh insights into an era when Oxfordshire was part of a tropical landscape very different from today.
