Wildlife in Focus

Wildlife in Focus features 12 stunning portraits of some of the animals who have called the California Science Center their home. More than 3,000 animals reside at the California Science Center, and together they represent hundreds of species. Some thrive in the wild, while others are at risk. Many are easy to overlook.

Every animal in a zoo, aquarium, or wildlife refuge is an ambassador for its species. They help scientists, staff and the public learn the animals’ needs and how to protect them in the wild. This is especially important for rare and endangered animals. These animals may be hard to find and study in nature. Photography is a powerful tool that inspires people to help protect species while there is still time. Photographer Joel Sartore visited the California Science Center in 2019 and captured portraits of 18 animals and twelve of these photographs are on view in the exhibition.

About Joel Sartore

Joel Sartore is an award-winning photographer, speaker, author, conservationist, and the 2018 National Geographic Explorer of the Year. He is a regular contributor to National Geographic Magazine and an Eagle Scout. Joel specializes in documenting endangered species and landscapes around the world. He is the founder of the Photo Ark, a 25-year documentary project to save species and habitat.

About the California Science Center 

Since 2011, the California Science Center is proud to be a part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing zoos and aquariums in conservation, animal welfare, education, science, and recreation. AZA is the accrediting body for the top zoos and aquariums in the U.S. and 13 other countries. AZA facilities, like the California Science Center, are committed to providing excellent animal care and supporting efforts to protect species and preserve the natural world. To learn more, visit www.aza.org.