The irony about the current mass extinction of animals is that it’s caused in part by a previous mass extinction of animals: the burning of fossil fuels is causing environmental changes, and those changes are deadly.
But that’s only part of the picture. Others are falling off thanks to hunting and being forced out of their habitats by a growing human population.
Some of these populations you’re surely familiar with: rhinos, hippos, polar bears. Others are creatures you’ve probably never heard of — but that doesn’t make them any less endearing.
The proof is in Endangered, a new book from photographer Tim Flach, who’s made it his life’s work to capture as many as he can before they pass along undocumented.
Beyond the usual subjects, you’ll find pangolins, sea angels, tree frogs, coral reefs and sturgeon. Every stunning page also features commentary from Jonathan Baille, the National Geographic Society’s chief scientist, whose words serve to humanize and commemorate all of the world’s creatures, no matter how big or small.
Pick up a copy. Fifty years from now, it may just be us and the rats.
This article was featured in the InsideHook newsletter. Sign up now.
