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U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
An image of a great blue heron walking in water.

Protecting Wildlife

Updated July 7, 2026
Lone piping plover, with leg bands, standing on sand

How We Protect Wildlife

We protect species from extinction, restore habitats, and foster biological diversity. U.S. Conservation laws, such as the Endangered Species Act (ESA), help define the United States' stance on conservation.

Learn about the Endangered Species ActEndangered Species Act Implementation

Conserving Species

Foreign SpeciesSouthern White Rhino. Credit Michelle Gadd / USFWSSpecies at RiskMore than a dozen monarch butterflies roost on an oak treeGray Wolf Recovery News and UpdatesWild Turtle WeekClose up of a Blanding's Turtle, its face and front legs are peeking through its shell

Preserving Habitats

Wildlife-Friendly Erosion Control ProductsA close-up view of a wildlife fence with smooth wire on the top and bottom and barbed wire in the middle. Green vegetation can be seen in the backgroundBipartisan Infrastructure Law Funds Proven ProjectsShoreline of Lake Tahoe with boats in the distance.Wetlandsaerial view of wetlands and forest with mountains in the backgroundThe Great American Outdoors ActTen people wearing bring yellow shirts and blue hard hats pose near a newly constructed rock wallGreat Lakes Restoration InitiativeA forested coastline along a large lake.

How You Can Help

Our public lands belong to all of us, and we have a shared responsibility for stewardship. 

Learn about wildlife laws and how to report wildlife crime.
Explore more:
Protecting Wildlife | U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service