But they'll appear Human enough...
on the outside. They should be able blend in well enough, until their numbers are sufficiently large enough. Then "coming out" wouldn't be a problem.
As far as them not being protected because they're not Human, look at the millions of people today that are against harming animals of any sort. And if they are attacked, they'll be more than capable of defending themselves.
Lee, (This is starting to sound like the X-Men)