The instruction permits taking baby birds or eggs from a nest but requires releasing the mother bird. This approach ensures that the bird population can replenish itself. Such a rule embodies a key principle of conservation and stewardship of the earth. One may utilize the bounty provided but must act to allow for continued provision. The directive to rule over fish, birds, and other living creatures does not grant the right to mistreat animals.

Conservationists wish to preserve wildlife and their habitats for human use and enjoyment. Lands remain available for hunting, camping, and viewing nature without excessive human interference, yet remain open for men to use. Environmentalists wish to preserve forests, animals, and habitats for their own sakes and often place such concerns above human needs. Biblical reasons support sound ecology because God gave dominion over the fish of the sea, the fowl of the air, and all that creeps on the earth. Men received responsibility to tend and keep the earth. Men possess the capacity to harm the earth through nuclear weapons, chemical agents, pollution, plundering of resources, over-farming, over-grazing, misuse of chemicals, genetic tinkering, and improper disposal of trash. Jesus Christ will return with power to destroy those who destroy the earth.