What is this Bone?

If you have found a bone, or bones, that you cannot identify easily, and you would like some expert help, you’ve come to the right place!

We should* be able to give you a quick answer about whether:

  • It is definitely a bone, or another object
  • It is human or animal
  • It is juvenile or adult
  • It is of forensic or archaeological interest
  • You need to bring it in for closer examination

Please email a clear digital photograph of the unidentified bone to this address: Dr Anna Williams

Notes for using the ‘What is this bone?’ service

Please:

  • Try to get the bone in focus
  • Include the ends and edges of the bone
  • Take a photo of both sides (on top and underneath) of the bone
  • Include a scale if possible, or something of standard size so that scale can be inferred (eg: a coin)
  • Include a label if possible
  • Include some details of where it was found
  • Include details of who to reply to with the information

* Please note that although we will try our best to identify the bone(s) in the photograph and give as much information as possible, there is no substitute for personal, hands-on examination of skeletal elements, and it is possible that some information may be corrected upon proper examination of the bone(s). For this, please arrange an appointment here

 

Return to the Centre for Forensic Anthropology Research

 

Dr Anna Williams
T: +44 (0)1793 314466
E: a.williams@cranfield.ac.uk