In Endangered, you have not only focused on the popular endangered species but also on the less-charismatic faces of the endangered species world. What was the reason for including these less attractive yet equally endangered species?
During my research on ecological drivers, I refrained from taking photographs for three months. Instead, I engaged in conversations with conservationists and communicators from various conservation organisations. Through these interactions, I learned about the effectiveness of certain images in reaching specific audiences. I inquired about the stories that needed to be told, ranging from climate change to land-use change, Coral, Vultures, Pangolins, and Saiga Antelopes. With only 300 pages and 160 images to work with, I had to be selective in the stories I chose to tell.
For instance, I chose to feature the Pied Tamarin, a critically endangered primate from Manaus, Brazil, in the Amazon, which is relatively unknown. Interestingly, it bears a striking resemblance to the sci-fi character Yoda from Star Wars, which in fact, is likely to be more familiar to us. I also included insects, as they are a vital part of our ecosystem. I wanted to highlight the Lord Howe Island stick insect, which was once thought to be extinct before being rediscovered in a bush on a rocky outcrop near the island.
Furthermore, I featured pandas to illustrate the strong cultural significance we attach to them and their connection to conservation. Ultimately, I selected animals that represented different ecological drivers and told compelling stories rather than merely choosing the most exotic and beautiful creatures for the book.
In summary, my research involved engaging with experts in the field and selecting animals that would effectively communicate the message of conservation. By doing so, I aimed to create a book that would inspire people to take action and protect our planet's biodiversity.