For many of Earth's creatures, time is running out. Species are disappearing at an alarming rate. To inspire people to care and help stop the crisis, the National Geographic Photo Ark is pursuing the ambitious goal of documenting every animal in captivity, while also funding on-the-ground conservation projects focused on those species in most critical need of protection.

This multiyear effort with photographer Joel Sartore will create intimate portraits of an estimated 12,000 species of birds, fish, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates. Once completed, the Photo Ark will serve as an important record of these animalsí existence and a powerful testament to the importance of saving them.