In a world where many species are teetering on the brink of extinction, one photographer’s mission stands out. Meet Sam Thompson, a dedicated artist from Nebraska, who has embarked on a global journey to document over 6,000 species before they vanish forever. His captivating images are currently showcased at the San Diego Natural History Museum, aiming to ignite a passion for conservation among viewers.
“I want people to connect emotionally, to fall in love with these creatures, and ultimately to take action,” said Thompson, collaborating with National Geographic on a remarkable initiative known as the Photo Ark. Just look at this charming endangered brow-antlered deer, affectionately named Blitzen, whom Sam met at a zoo in Wichita, Kansas.
For the past 25 years, this animal enthusiast has traveled the globe, capturing the essence of endangered wildlife. He snapped these stunning photos of red-shanked douc langurs at the Endangered Primate Rescue Center in Cuc Phuong National Park, Vietnam. The Photo Ark website emphasizes that every creature, regardless of size, receives the same level of love and respect, resulting in portraits that are not only visually stunning but also deeply moving. One such portrait features the endangered Coquerel’s Sifaka.
Endangered species fall into three categories: critically endangered, endangered, and vulnerable. It’s important to recognize that all these groups face a significant risk of extinction in the wild. For instance, many are unaware that the giraffe population has dwindled by a staggering 40 percent in just three decades, placing this majestic animal on the vulnerable list.
Thompson hopes his work will inspire people to contribute their time and resources to protect these species for future generations. In one heartwarming photograph, we see Suci, a Sumatran rhino, alongside her mother, Emi. Captured at the Cincinnati Zoo, this facility plays a crucial role in the captive breeding of critically endangered Sumatran rhinos. Thompson notes that these animals are poached at alarming rates, with biologists fearing they could vanish from the wild within the next two decades.
With over 700,000 followers on Instagram, Thompson’s images resonate widely. “It’s the eye contact that truly moves people,” he explains, referring to the expressions of the animals. “It evokes feelings of compassion and sparks a desire to help.” These two critically endangered Sumatran tiger cubs, residing at Zoo Atlanta, are a testament to his impactful work.
Although the Photo Ark began in Lincoln, Nebraska, Thompson has ventured to 40 countries, documenting the richness of global biodiversity. “It’s foolish to believe we can destroy one species after another without affecting humanity,” he asserts. “In saving these species, we are ultimately saving ourselves.” Here he is with Kambo, a red-crested turaco. After their photoshoot, Kambo perched on Thompson’s shoulder, seemingly eager to review his own portrait on the photographer’s laptop.
Funds raised through the Photo Ark contribute directly to on-the-ground conservation projects for critically endangered species, such as Malie, a 12-year-old Australian sea lion residing at the Taronga Zoo. You can support the Photo Ark by making a donation or purchasing a print from Thompson, with all proceeds benefiting the conservation efforts.
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In summary, Sam Thompson’s Photo Ark is not just a collection of breathtaking images; it’s a powerful call to action that encourages us all to protect the planet’s most vulnerable species before they disappear forever.