Story perspectives

Kennedy Jr. Removes Black Racer Snakes from Oz’s Patio

5/27/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On May 26, 2026, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. removed two black racer snakes from Dr. Mehmet Oz's Palm Beach patio as his wife urged release.
Cheryl Hines called them water moccasins, which Kennedy corrected to harmless black racers, a nonvenomous species that may bite if provoked.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission warned residents to admire snakes from a distance and avoid handling them.

History

Historical Context

In 1995 the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission launched a statewide Snakebite Prevention Program, training volunteers and funding education. Decades later, the agency’s emphasis on expert handling resurfaced when Robert F. Kennedy Jr. removed black racers from Mehmet Oz’s Palm Beach patio, echoing the same public-safety goals. Florida’s wildlife management, which in 2012 counted roughly one million alligators, continues to balance human safety with native species protection.

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Story summary

On May 26, 2026, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. removed two black racer snakes from Dr. Mehmet Oz's Palm Beach patio as his wife urged release.
Cheryl Hines called them water moccasins, which Kennedy corrected to harmless black racers, a nonvenomous species that may bite if provoked.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission warned residents to admire snakes from a distance and avoid handling them.

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