Wildlife conservation and management are in a state of crisis. On the basis of nearly 50 years as a field wildlife biologist, researcher and manager, I identify issues that impact on wildlife. These relate to species-at-risk, habitat loss, human-wildlife conflicts including predator and “pest” control, pollution, animal welfare, invasive alien species, bad management caused by sociopolitical interests, and the North American Model for Wildlife Conservation. I propose solutions in a series of points to ponder to implement proper procedures, recognize and protect valuable habitats, preserve and ensure the perseverance of populations, and prevent or reduce pollution, pesticides and invasive species. Finally, I identify basic principles that should be considered when developing a model for wildlife conservation: 1) Wildlife is an integral component of people’s environment; 2) The cost of conservation and management are borne by all citizens and funds are entirely dedicated to wildlife populations and habitats; 3) The maintenance of viable wildlife populations always takes precedence over their use by people; 4) Wildlife habitat conservation, restoration, and connectivity always takes precedence over landscape development and use by people; 5) Animal welfare concerns are properly addressed in all consumptive and nonconsumptive wildlife use; 6) Invasion of alien species, and the source of these invasions, are immediately stopped; 7) Wildlife conservation is based on multi-disciplinary consultations; 8) Wildlife conservation and management are science-based; 9) Public education, school programs, and community initiatives are essential components of wildlife conservation and management programs; and 10) Funding needs to be consistent and apolitical from year to year. The future of wildlife ultimately depends on dedicated wildlife biologists with high professionalism and ethics, working together to implement effective science-based conservation and management programs.