Many unique and spectacular birds are now threatened with extinction or decimation. For this reason, captive bird collections and propagation are attracting new interest from conservationists, and the manipulative techniques of caring for captive birds are being examined for keys to the temporary salvation of birds faltering at the edge of extinction. Such technology includes the provision of polyvinyl chloride pipe nest boxes for Puerto Rican Parrots (Amazona vittata), the “hacking” of Bald Eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) and Peregrines (Falco peregrinus), and even the crossfostering of Whooping Crane (Grus americana) eggs under Sandhill Crane (Grus canadensis tabida) foster parents. Fortunately, captive propagation of birds is becoming more predictable, more science than art. Within this evolution lies a potential for the survival of some species in unconventional preservation programs including ex situ preservation, with all the ecological and philosophical uncertainties that method can impose.

Most public collections of birds – zoological gardens – are located in population centers. For an increasing number of people, they comprise the only really significant experience of birdlife that they will ever have. During the past 15 years, new exhibit techniques have allowed zoo biologists to display birds in simulated habitat groups, to sustain them better, to breed them, and to do all these things in esthetically compelling ways. One result has been heightened public consciousness.