Outdoor Exhibition Ending Soon Showcases National Geographic Photographer Joel Sartore’s Work Documenting Every Species Living in the World’s Zoos and Other Wildlife Sanctuaries

From now until February 25, Los Angeles Zoo guests can view selections from the ambitious National Geographic Photo Ark project. Founded by National Geographic photographer and Fellow Joel Sartore, the Photo Ark aims to document every species in the world’s zoos and wildlife sanctuaries and inspire people to help protect animals for future generations. The current display shows more than 50 of Sartore’s most compelling images — many of which were photographed at the L.A. Zoo —throughout the grounds and provides Zoo visitors with the unique opportunity to come face to face with animals up close and in vivid color. This exhibition is organized by the National Geographic Society and Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium.

Sartore has worked in more than 250 zoos, aquariums, and animal rescue centers around the world on his quest to build the exhibition. “I hope when [visitors] look at the Photo Ark kiosks here at the L.A. Zoo, they see that a lot of conservation work [is] being done,” states Sartore. “This is a zoo that breeds critically endangered animals, and does education and habitat restoration and anti- poaching patrol funding. They do it all. It’s world- class and it’s right here in L.A. We can all help and it all starts with coming to the Zoo to see the Photo Ark exhibit.”

“Saving species requires everyone to be engaged and make use of every tool available,” explains John R. Lewis, L.A. Zoo Director. “It has often been said that we will only preserve what we love and Joel’s beautiful portraits inspire compassion, awe, and appreciation for each individual animal. It is my belief that the National Geographic Photo Ark will galvanize people to save animals by supporting individuals and institutions involved in species conservation.” Lewis also expresses his appreciation saying, “The Zoo is actively involved in saving species from extinction, so we are proud and humbled to not only have some of our residents included in Joel’s exhibition, but also to be given the opportunity to share the portraits with the people of the greater Los Angeles area.”

The Photo Ark exhibition is traveling to zoos and institutions around the world to raise awareness of the project’s mission, which is further explored in the new National Geographic book, The Photo Ark, and a children’s book, Animal Ark, both available at the L.A. Zoo gift shop. Fans of the exhibit are also invited to join the conversation on social media with #SaveTogether and learn more about how to get involved with the project at NatGeoPhotoArk.org.

The National Geographic Photo Ark exhibition is included with the purchase of a general admission ticket or free with GLAZA membership. Learn more at www.lazoo.org/photoark

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About the National Geographic Society

The National Geographic Society is a leading nonprofit that invests in bold people and transformative ideas in the fields of exploration, scientific research, storytelling and education. The Society aspires to create a community of change, advancing key insights about the planet and probing some of the most pressing scientific questions of our time, all while ensuring that the next generation is armed with geographic knowledge and global understanding. Its goal is measurable impact: furthering exploration and educating people around the world to inspire solutions for the greater good. For more information, visit www.nationalgeographic.org.

About the Los Angeles Zoo
Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), which holds member institutions to rigorous professions standards for animal welfare, the Los Angeles Zoo is renowned as an international leader in the preservation of endangered species and a conservation center for the care and study of wildlife. Drawing nearly 1.8 million visitors each year, the L.A. Zoo is home to a diverse collection of 1,100 animals representing 250 different species, many of which are rare or endangered. Its lush grounds on 113 acres feature a botanical collection comprising over 800 different plant species with approximately 7,000 individual plants. The Zoo is located in Griffith Park at the junction of the Ventura (134) and Golden State (5) freeways. Admission is $21 for adults and $16 for children ages 2 to 12. The Zoo is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. For information, call (323) 644-4200 or visit the L.A. Zoo Web site at www.lazoo.org.