Our Work
Our wildlife work covers projects informed by science that inspire and empower local and global audiences to better understand and protect wildlife, including animals, plants and fungi. Projects may examine single species or groups of species, and species-habitat relationships in the wild.
Our Explorers are working around the world to save threatened wildlife, safeguard ecosystems and educate and encourage people to co-exist more peacefully with local animal populations.
dangerous traps removed from big cat habitats
species photographed through the National Geographic Photo Ark
millions of acres protected under the Florida Wildlife Corridor Act
Featured Program
Photo Ark
National Geographic Explorer and Photo Ark founder Joel Sartore uses the power of photography to save wildlife before it’s too late. He has taken portraits of 17,000 species — and counting — in his quest to document our world’s astonishing diversity — nearly achieving his goal of documenting 20,000 species living in the world’s zoos and wildlife sanctuaries.
In the Field
Our Wildlife Explorers
Through their important work, they document, inspire, educate and engage to preserve critical species around the globe. Our wildlife Explorers courageously work to end wildlife trafficking and protect at-risk species at the edge of extinction. On the frontlines of conservation, they help safeguard fragile ecosystems for future generations.
Read more stories of impact from some of our wildife Explorers on nationalgeographic.com.
Explorer's perspective
Making a Difference
”Our work is not only about restoring wildlife, it’s about restoring people’s lives. Through science, conservation and community engagement, we can create a virtuous cycle that allows people and animals to thrive.“
Join Us
Help Us Protect At-Risk Species
Inspire the Next Generation to Save Our Wildlife
Explore wildlife in our Resource Library. We've made available for educators and learners lessons, articles, maps, videos and so much more, to inspire our mission to illuminate and protect the wonder of our world.
Support Our Work
We have a duty to protect our Earth's precious wildlife. By helping people understand wildlife, we believe they will form deeper emotional connections to our planet's species. Will you help protect the wonder of our world?