Michael Kensinger is an award-winning wildlife illustrator, outdoor writer, and conservation advocate whose work celebrates the intricate beauty of the natural world. His creative practice draws together the roles of artist, storyteller, field observer, and hands-on wildlife rescuer, giving his work a depth and authenticity that reflects years of direct experience with the species and landscapes he portrays. His illustrations and essays appear in regional and national publications including PA Angler & Boater Magazine, Pennsylvania Outdoor News, Delta Waterfowl Magazine, PA Wildlife Magazine, and Northern Woodlands. He writes across natural history, species identification, field reporting, and narrative nonfiction, combining scientific accuracy with an accessible, evocative voice.

Michael’s artwork has earned recognition at both state and national levels. His work was selected by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as the companion species illustration published alongside the 2025 Federal Duck Stamp, distributed nationwide and featured as part of the official release. He won the 2021 Pennsylvania Waterfowl Management Stamp Contest with Sycamore Retreat and earned placement in the 2023 Michigan Duck Stamp Contest. Beyond his artistic achievements, he serves as President of the Juniata Valley Audubon Society, where he contributes to conservation outreach, community education, and habitat advocacy. His efforts maintaining Wood Duck nest boxes, monitoring wildlife, studying native plant communities, and rescuing abandoned domestic ducks shape the grounded realism of his art and writing. Working in acrylics, gouache, pen and ink, digital media, and field sketching, he brings together traditional craftsmanship and contemporary tools to create work that is visually compelling, accurate, and richly narrative. He is also developing long-form manuscripts and illustrated nonfiction projects and is seeking professional partnerships that support his continued work in wildlife literature, art, and conservation storytelling.