A video clip surfaced online showing Robert F Kennedy Jr on a sunny Florida patio, where he bent down and picked up two snakes with his bare hands. The footage, recorded on a phone, quickly went viral, drawing widespread attention and prompting wildlife safety warnings.
What the Video Shows
The unremarkable patio, with sun-bleached stone tiles and a few chairs, became the scene of an unusual wildlife encounter. Two snakes, later identified as black racers, moved across the ground. Kennedy crouched, reached down, and lifted the snakes one after another. They twisted in his hands, and at one point, a bite-like contact occurred, though it was unclear in the movement. Kennedy then faced the camera briefly before stepping away.
Wildlife Response and Safety Reminders
After the clip circulated, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission issued advisories reminding the public to leave snakes alone, even harmless-looking ones. Spring is a period when reptiles are more active in residential areas. The guidance emphasized predictability over fear: while non-venomous snakes like black racers can bite in self-defense, the reaction is often sharper than expected.
Understanding Black Racer Behavior
Black racers are common in Florida, known for their speed and preference for open ground. They often dart across gardens or driveways and typically avoid humans unless provoked. Authorities advise observing from a distance and giving snakes space, as they are part of the local ecosystem adjusting to human expansion.
