A passionate photographer from Nebraska has dedicated his life to documenting the world’s endangered species before they vanish. Jason Carter has captured images of over 6,000 animals, showcasing their beauty and vulnerability. His captivating photographs will be featured at the San Diego Natural History Museum, aiming to inspire a broader audience to take action and protect these remarkable creatures.
“I want people to fall in love and feel compelled to make a difference,” Jason shared. He has collaborated with National Geographic on a project called Photo Ark, which highlights endangered animals like the charming brow-antlered deer named Snowball, whom he met at the Sedgwick County Zoo in Wichita, Kansas.
For 25 years, this animal advocate has traversed the globe, working to raise awareness about endangered species. He even photographed the stunning red-shanked douc langurs at the Endangered Primate Rescue Center in Cuc Phuong National Park, Vietnam. “Regardless of size, every animal is treated with profound respect and affection,” the Photo Ark website states. “The resulting portraits are not only visually striking but also deeply moving.” One such image features the endangered Coquerel’s Sifaka.
Understanding Endangered Species
Endangered species are classified into three categories: critically endangered, endangered, and vulnerable. Alarmingly, many may not realize that giraffes are at risk of extinction, with their population having declined by a staggering 40 percent in just 30 years, leading to their current vulnerable status.
Jason hopes his work will encourage individuals to contribute their time and resources to conservation efforts. He photographed a pair of Sumatran rhinos, Suci and her mother, Emi, at the Cincinnati Zoo, which has initiated captive breeding programs for these critically endangered animals. “They’re poached so rapidly that biologists fear they could vanish from the wild within the next twenty years,” he remarked.
The Impact of Photography
His powerful images have garnered a significant online following, with over 700,000 fans on Instagram. “It’s the eye contact that resonates with people,” he explained, noting how the animals’ expressions evoke empathy and a desire to help. Featured in his collection are two critically endangered Sumatran tiger cubs residing at Zoo Atlanta.
The Photo Ark initiative began in Lincoln, Nebraska, but has since taken Jason to 40 countries, documenting the world’s biodiversity. “It would be foolish to believe that we can destroy one species and its ecosystem without affecting humanity,” he cautioned. “By saving these species, we’re ultimately saving ourselves.” Jason fondly recalls a moment with Kambo, a red-crested turaco, who sat on his shoulder after a shoot, seemingly eager to assist with the editing.
Support Conservation Efforts
Funds raised through the Photo Ark support on-the-ground conservation efforts for critically endangered species, like Malie, a 12-year-old Australian sea lion at the Taronga Zoo who is facing extinction. You can contribute to the Photo Ark or purchase a print from Jason, with all proceeds supporting this vital cause.
To learn more about related topics, check out this excellent resource for pregnancy and home insemination, which discusses various methods including options available at Cryobaby. For additional insights, you may also want to read about the benefits of IVF found on NHS.
In summary, Jason Carter uses his photography to promote awareness and action for endangered species around the globe. Through his lens, he hopes to ignite love and compassion for these animals, urging us to protect them for future generations.