Full Breakdown
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Handles Snakes on Video, Prompting Wildlife Agency Warnings
5/27/2026, 9:15:07 PM
The Viral Snake-Handling Video
The viral clip posted by U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. shows him crouching on Dr. Mehmet Oz’s Florida patio and pulling two black-racer snakes with his bare hands. His Instagram caption reads, “Cheryl cheerleads the removal of a pair of Black Racers from Dr Oz’s patio.” The video, posted on X, amassed nearly eight million views in eight hours; Kennedy, in a shirt, slacks, tie and socks, smiles as the snakes bite his hands.
Background: Prior Animal-Related Incidents
Kennedy’s snake handling follows a series of public animal-related incidents. In April, he was questioned on Capitol Hill about cutting off a road-killed raccoon’s penis for research. Two years earlier, environmentalists criticized his claim that he decapitated a beached whale with a chainsaw. These episodes have framed his hands-on approach as controversial.
Official Wildlife Agency Guidance
The National Park Service and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) note that black racers are non-venomous but advise against handling them. The FWC posted, “Give snakes a wide berth and admire them from the distance,” and added, “Resist the urge to pick it up – even our non-venomous snakes can give a solid bite.” Professionals are recommended for removal.
Criticism from Lawmakers and Environmentalists
Congresswoman Adelita Grijalva (D-AZ) asked why a health official would handle wildlife during a Capitol Hill hearing. Environmental groups have labeled Kennedy’s animal-related claims sensationalist, warning that such stunts could undermine public-health messaging and wildlife safety.
Conflicting Perspectives
Kennedy’s caption portrays the snakes as harmless, while wildlife agencies stress that even non-venomous snakes can bite and pose health risks. The contrast highlights tension between personal enthusiasm and official safety guidance.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Cheryl cheerleads the removal of a pair of Black Racers from Dr Oz's patio,” — Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Instagram caption
- “Give snakes a wide berth and admire them from a distance,” — Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
- “Resist the urge to pick it up - even our nonvenomous snakes can give a solid bite,” — Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
- “If it were me, I would bend at the knees a little more, try to get a little lower to the ground,” — Bruce Ireland, snake wrangler
Why the Incident Matters
The video’s rapid reach shows how a senior health official’s personal actions can influence public views on wildlife safety. Handling snakes without protection may model risky behavior, potentially encouraging imitation, and fuels debate over a health secretary’s involvement in non-medical stunts.
Outlook and Potential Follow-up
Under growing scrutiny, the Department of Health and Human Services may issue a formal response. Wildlife agencies are expected to intensify education on safe snake handling. Future media appearances by Kennedy could address the criticism and clarify his stance on wildlife interaction.
