On the Footprint of an Iguanodon, lately found at Hastings

The occurrence of ichnites or footprints in the Wealden strata has on previous occasions been brought before the notice of the Geological Society by both Tagart and Beckles; and these remains have also been alluded to by Mantell in his ‘Geology of the Isle of Wight’ (1st edit., 1847, pp. 247, 328).

A notice of the recent discovery of similar impressions may be interesting, and may assist in throwing some light upon their nature and character, as well as lead us to some general observations on the strata in which they are found.

By the earlier observers these footprints were referred to gigantic birds, but subsequently the probability of their being reptilian has been advanced. This idea is supported by the abundant occurrence of numerous bones of the Iguanodon and other Dinosaurians in the Wealden deposits. By Dr. Mantel's exertions many of these remains were brought before the scientific world; and more lately Professor Owen, in a monograph published by the Palæontographical Society, has figured and described, among other fine specimens, the bones of the foot of a young Iguanodon, obtained by Mr. Beckles in the Isle of Wight. This foot has three toes, measures 21 inches in length and 9½ in width, and would form a print or “spoor” similar in outline to that shown by the imprint now exhibited, and by the several other imprints and natural casts of imprints found in the Wealden rocks.

The footprints recently observed near Hastings were upon detached blocks of sand-rock which