Nature Picture Library photo story: Animosity

Orangutan (Pongo sp.) forced to perform in a boxing show for the entertainment of tourists. Safari World near Bangkok, Thailand

Now, more than ever, it’s time to re-examine our relationship with animals. That’s the message behind new book Animosity, the culmination of a decade of photojournalism by award-winning photographer Aaron Gekoski.

“I’ve been subjected to scenes that no-one should witness,” says Gekoski.

“Animals have always been viewed as commodities to eat, exploit or enjoy. It’s going to take a monumental effort to change perceptions and reverse the statistics. But we cannot continue on the path that we’re on, because sometimes – as we are now witnessing in the face of a global pandemic – the animals bite back.”

Our new photo story showcases some of Gekoski’s most powerful images, and the different facets of human/animal conflict they expose

(Please note, the images in this story may be disturbing to some viewers. Viewer discretion is advised).

Nature Picture Library newsletter – 21 January 2021.
Picture credit: Orangutan (Pongo sp.) forced to perform in a boxing show for the entertainment of tourists. Safari World near Bangkok, Thailand © Aaron Gekoski / naturepl.com