We’ve been continuing to shine a light on inspiring people who connect with nature in their own way, using the outdoors to conquer their everyday mountains and reconnect on their own terms. 

We’re proud to introduce our third star, Rocco Ling; Fossil finder. Explorer. Artist. 

For Rocco, the outdoors is a place of discovery. Along windy beaches and beneath rocky cliffs, every stone turned over could reveal something millions of years old. He walks the shoreline with his dad, eyes down, pockets filling and comparing finds. Brushing sand from ancient shapes and learning where to look and when to be patient. 

Q: What is it about fossils that you love? 

Rocco: I love the unknown about what I can find and also being out with my Dad. 

Q: What do your friends and family think about your hobby as a fossil hunter? 

They support and love my passion as a fossil hunter. My family love me being outside, away from screens. 

Q: What’s your favourite thing you’ve found when fossil hunting? 

I once found a block of Hybodont (Jurassic shark) skull, featuring perfect teeth, the rare preserved cartilage and even skin impressions! 

Q: What’s the most unusual thing you’ve found when fossil hunting? 

The most unusual thing I’ve found was probably a dead dolphin on the beach – poor thing. 

Q: What’s your favourite spot to go fossil hunting and is there anywhere you’d like to go that you haven’t already been?

My favourite spot to fossil hunt is Charmouth in Dorset, I always find something good from there. I’d love to go to Wyoming (America) to look for T-Rex fossils, and I’d also love to go to Florida looking for Megalodon teeth! 

Q: What is one of your favourite beach memories? 

One of my favourite beach memories is getting stuck in the mud at Charmouth. My Dad had to pull me out, I sank up to my waist! 

Q: What is one message you’d like people to understand about fossil hunting? 

One message I’d like people to understand is not to give up; some of my best finds have been at the end of the day! Keep going regularly and research different locations to search.  

Q: Do you have a favourite piece of clothing or accessory that you like to wear when fossil hunting? 

I love my waterproof trousers from Mountain Warehouse, they keep me dry and clean. 

Q: What does creating art out of fossils mean to you? 

Creating art out of fossils means a lot to me. I love creating patterns out of them and seeing my fossils come back to life. I also like the fact that they are not wasted as they all come together to create the piece of art. 

Q: Other than fossil hunting and creating art, what else do you like doing with your spare time? 

In my spare time, I play padel, football and computer games. I also create videos for my YouTube and Instagram fossil hunting channels.  

Q: Who or what inspires you? 

The person who inspires me the most is my Dad, because he gave me the same passion he had at my age. He still loves fossil hunting now, 30 years later. 

Q: What did you enjoy most about starring in the Mountain Warehouse film? 

I enjoyed sharing my passion with the world, meeting the crew and learning about how films are made.