Today, many people realize that birds should be protected from harmful human activities. There are many clubs of bird lovers dedicated to the protection of birds. Principal among these is the National Audubon Society, founded in 1905.

More than 300 areas in North America have been set aside as national wildlife refuges. No hunting or farming is permitted in these areas. National wildlife refuges were set up in 1929 by Congress. Private bird sanctuaries are maintained by organizations such as the Audubon Society. Cities and states also set aside areas where birds can breed without being disturbed by humans. Some famous bird sanctuaries are located at Pelican Island, Florida; Hawk Mountain, Pennsylvania; and Rainey Wild Life Sanctuary, Louisiana.

Another means of protection involves breeding individuals of an endangered species in captivity to build up its population. Once the group of captive birds has become well established and their wild habitat well protected, some individuals are released into the wild. This practice has helped certain species, such as the peregrine falcon, increase in numbers.