DINOSAUR IMPRINT

[GeoRam13]

Good Afternoon everyone! I joined the forum in need of some help. While on a recent camping adventure with my kids we did a stop alongside a creek in Pennsylvania area. We usually hunt for teeth but one of my kids found to me an unusual rock. My eyes might be playing tricks on my but with the ridges and imprints along it seem to be some sort of skin. its roughly 8"X8" in size. Let me know if anyone would be interested in better pictures. Unfortunately it was already cracked when we found it.

 

 

[Fossildude19]

Where in PA.?

Only south eastern PA has Mesozoic outcrops.

We need to see pictures of the item dry.

With the current pictures, I can't see anything jumping out and screaming fossil.

[GeoRam13]

Got it, northern PA close to Lake Erie. The texture left behind just seems very strange. I wouldn't claim it as natural erosion but I suppose it could be?

Edited July 17, 2021 by GeoRam13

[Fossildude19]

I would guess sedimentary structures. 
Definitely not any fossils, that I can see.   

[Kane]

I agree.

From my understanding of northern Pennsylvania geology, it might be too old for dino prints. That being said, if you ever are in a place where dinosaur footprints are known, they rarely appear alone, but as trackways (unless by some miracle the dinosaur had NBA style powers! ). One of our members here has a great deal of luck with trackways --@RetiredLawyer -- and his posts are excellent examples of what to expect if you find yourself in trackway country!

[GeoRam13]

Thanks for the info! I wont tell the 8 year old that it is just a rock!!! Rutgers is close by so I am going to swing by there just for fun. Thanks again!!!

[hemipristis]

9 hours ago, Fossildude19 said:

I would guess sedimentary structures. 
Definitely not any fossils, that I can see.   

I agree. Interesting ones, however

[Auspex]

I can see why the idea of a reptile skin imprint came up! IMO, there is no reason to dash an 8 year old's sense of wonder; it is good of you to oblige his fascination. I hope he keeps the memory of his excitement for his whole life, and I hope that he never loses his sense of wonder.

 

[abyssunder]

I think it would be not too far fron flute casts/sole marks. 

 

https://www.google.com/search?q=flute+casts&client=ms-android-jeko&hl=ro&prmd=ivsn&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjhrcG3le3xAhXTQeUKHdAKC8YQ_AUoAXoECAMQAQ&biw=360&bih=560&dpr=2

 

Edited July 18, 2021 by abyssunder