Cutties Hillock
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Condition (NatureScot)
| Unit | Feature | Condition | Area (ha) | Assessed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| F1 | Permian - Triassic Reptilia | Favourable | — | 2015-03-19 |
Geology & landscape
Mining / Industrial: Quarry · Geological Period: Permian
Description
CUTTIES HILLOCK Cuttie’s Hillock is a disused quarry located about 3km west of Elgin. The quarry has yielded a fossil reptile fauna quite distinct from any found elsewhere in the world. Its age (very late Permian) sets it apart from the well known late Permian reptile beds of South Africa and Russia. The pareiasaur Elginia, with its bizarre specialisations, is the most recent known member of the group. The dicynodont Geikia is also unique, while Gordonia compares more closely with South African forms. These are the only dicynodonts known from western Europe. Cutties Hillock is the youngest Permian terrestrial reptile locality in the world.