Fossilised Weevil Pupal Case — “Fairy Bonnet” | Eyre Peninsula

A curious remnant of Australia’s prehistoric landscape, these small fossils are commonly known as fairy bonnets, fairy boots or pixie clogs.

Each specimen is a fossilised underground pupal case made by a weevil larva. Before transforming into an adult beetle, the larva formed a protective chamber by binding surrounding grains of sand and soil together. Over immense spans of time, mineralisation preserved the chamber as a distinctive trace fossil.

These examples originate from the Eyre Peninsula region of South Australia, where coastal weathering and erosion expose ancient fossil-bearing sediments.

Every specimen has its own natural shape, texture and colouring. Some may retain an opening associated with the emergence of the adult insect.

Details

• One genuine fossilised weevil pupal case
• Commonly called a fairy bonnet, fairy boot or pixie clog
• Origin: Eyre Peninsula region, South Australia
• Geological age: Pleistocene
• Each specimen is naturally different
• Four specimens available
• Price is for one specimen

Please examine the photographs carefully for condition, shape and natural characteristics. As genuine geological specimens, variations, surface marks and irregularities are part of their history rather than imperfections.

A fascinating and affordable addition to a fossil collection, natural-history display or cabinet of curiosities.