National Geographic Explorer and founder of the Photo Ark Joel Sartore is on a mission to photograph all species living in the world’s zoos, aquariums and wildlife sanctuaries to highlight to the urgency of extinction and species loss from habitat destruction, climate change and other factors. With over 17,000 species photographed to date, the Photo Ark is a dazzling compilation of Earth’s biodiversity. With every new portrait, the Photo Ark aims to inspire more people around the world to protect at-risk species before it is too late.

Use this collection as a companion material for the Museum of Exploration’s Exhibition Gallery exhibit, PhotoArk: Animals of Earth. You can also explore more Museum of Exploration Education Resource collections.