Australia stands out as one of the world's most biodiverse nations, earning its place among the 17 "megadiverse" countries. It is home to more species than any other developed nation, and an extraordinary percentage of its wildlife is found nowhere else on Earth—87 percent of mammals, 93 percent of reptiles, 94 percent of frogs, and 45 percent of birds are uniquely Australian.

　　Yet, Australia's ecosystems face significant challenges. Climate change, invasive species, pollution, and human activity have driven alarming degradation. The nation's 2022 five-year environmental scorecard revealed that 19 ecosystems are showing signs of or nearing collapse. Between 2016 and 2021, 202 additional species were added to the threatened list, underscoring the urgency of conservation efforts.

　　Amidst these challenges, the Irwin family has emerged as a beacon of hope. Since opening the Australia Zoo in 1970, they have dedicated decades to wildlife conservation and education. Carrying forward this legacy is Robert Irwin, son of wildlife conservationists and television personalities Steve and Terri Irwin. A conservationist, television personality, zookeeper, and wildlife photographer, Robert has embarked on numerous photography expeditions, from Africa's savannahs to New Zealand's mountains and Europe's wilderness.

　　In a conversation with OT, Robert, who recently turned 21, shared insights about growing up in a family of conservationists, his vision for the Australia Zoo, and the impact of climate change on wildlife.

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