Professional ornithologists specialize in fields of pure science such as bird anatomy, behavior, ecology, and evolution, or in applied fields such as wildlife management and avian veterinary medicine, and they have a number of societies that publish journals and hold annual meetings. The American Ornithologists' Union was founded in 1883, and the first session of the International Ornithological Congress was held the following year. Amateur ornithologists can also participate in migration studies and other programs. Although cures and treatment are important, promotion of health is assuming its rightful place in veterinary medicine. Veterinary medicine is concerned with a variety of animal species other than humans in a multitude of environmental circumstances.
Humans are, however, the primary beneficiary of veterinary efforts.
Wildlife managers must know habitat requirements for the survival and reproduction of many animals species. They conduct population surveys and provide protection for the species in their area.