Since its founding in 1973 as the Urban Wildlife Research Center, this organization has promoted the preservation of wildlife in urban settings. In 1983, it became the National Institute for Urban Wildlife and continues to provide support to individuals and organizations involved in maintaining a place for wildlife in the expanding American cities and suburbs. The institute conducts research exploring the relationship between humans and wildlife in urban areas, publicizes methods of urban wildlife management, and raises public awareness of the value of wildlife in city settings. Its activities are divided into four programs: research, urban conservation education, technical services, and urban wildlife sanctuaries.

The research program provides specific information on the interplay between urban dwellers and wildlife. Developers, engineers, government agencies, industry, planners, students, and the general public use the research conducted by the institute. Some of the studies published by...