For Earth's endangered species, time is of the essensce. Friday, May 19 is the 12th annual Endangered Species Day, which seeks to teach people of all ages about the importance of protecting endangered species. 

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National Geographic Society has teamed up with the Outdoor Advertising Association of America on a #SaveTogether campaign, urging the public to take everyday actions to save endangered animals. The campaign will kick off on Friday in Times Square with a digital billboard takeover, and will continue throughout the summer on donated billboards and other formats across the country. 

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Visitors at the #SaveTogether takeover in Times Square can take a selfie with one of the Photo Ark images, which will appear on the billboard in real time. 

The Photo Ark was founded by National Geographic photographer Joel Sartore. The project aims to document every species currently living in zoos and wildlife sanctuaries to inspire action through education to save wildlife. The Photo Ark supports on-the-ground conservation efforts for endangered species. Sartore has photographed more than 6,500 species so far. 

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Endangered Species Day started in 2006 by the U.S. Congress to celebrate the nation's wildlife and wild places. Every year, on the third Friday in May, as well as throughout the month, zoos, aquariums, parks, botanic gardens, wildlife refuges and conservation groups hold events in celebration of Endangered Species Day.

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