Before digging, it's important to collect as much information about the fossil as possible. This information not only will help the excavation process itself but also prove useful for later research. DMNS paleontologists start actual excavation of the Cretaceous turtle by determining the extent of the fossil. Recording how the fossil bones are arranged may help in figuring out how the animal died and what happened to its remains afterwards. Once the digging starts, this information is gone, so paleontologists have only one chance to record it accurately.
Happy paleontologists surround the pedestaled turtle.
Paleontologists try to determine the extent of the fossil since only part of it is likely to be exposed when it's found. Familiarity with the fossil animal helps in the process, as do careful excavation techniques. When the fossil is delicate or its exact size and shape aren't known, DMNS paleontologists frequently use small tools like toothbrushes to remove sediment. Working very carefully, they dig around the fossil's edges to form a pedestal. Next, they jacket the fossil's top surface.