There's a new 'Big 5' of wildlife photography

A couple of years since we first heard about the New Big 5 project, the initiative has announced the 'new Big 5', a list of animals for wildlife photographers to pursue trophy photos of.

Historically the term has roots in the colonial era and was used by trophy hunters in Africa when referring to the five most prized and dangerous animals to hunt on foot. This group consisted of the elephant, rhino, leopard, Cape buffalo, and lion.

The New Big 5 project is an attempt to reclaim the term for conservation purposes, and is supported by over 250 prominent photographers, conservationists and wildlife charities. 

More than 50,000 people voted for animals, with the elephant, lion, polar bear, gorilla and tiger, anounced as the new Big 5. All are keystone species listed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature as either critically endangered, endangered or vulnerable.

One of the hopes of the project is that it will further encourage photographic tourism globally. Photographer Graeme Green, who organised the initiative, said it could bring money to pay for conservation work that benefits animals on the wildlife bucket list, creating a positive alternative to trophy hunting.

"While the big charismatic species are great ambassadors, we need to increase awareness about all creatures," said photographer Ami Vitale, one of the contributors to the initiative.  

You can find out more about the New Big 5 here.