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Behind the atlas: photographs with a traceable source

How image attribution helps a public encyclopedia respect the people who make it possible.

CAT DOLL · September 5, 2026 · 2 min read

Behind the atlas: photographs with a traceable source

A picture needs context

A photograph should match the animal it represents and have enough information to trace its origin. File names alone do not establish permission to reuse it.

Keep the credit with the image

This atlas records the author, source page and license alongside included photographs. When editors replace an image, the new credit and license need to be updated too.

Understand the permission

Open licenses have different conditions. Some require attribution or sharing adaptations under compatible terms. A public website must check the license that applies to the exact image.

Make corrections possible

If an attribution is incomplete or an image is misidentified, use the contact page with the relevant URL and supporting information. Clear records make corrections easier.

A useful next step

Choose one manageable improvement and make a note of what changes. Use the practical tools to organize the details, and return to the discussion to share what you learned.

Sources & further reading

Cornell Feline Health Center — topics ↗

International Cat Care ↗

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Discussion

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