Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was visibly frustrated, tapping his fingers on his lawn chair as a reporter and photographer waited in the bushes behind his Los Angeles home. His two wild ravens were not cooperating for a photo shoot, despite his efforts with a bag of meat scraps.
As an independent presidential candidate, Mr. Kennedy, known for his environmental work and anti-establishment views, also embraces his image as an outdoorsman with a passion for wildlife. His interest in birds, especially ravens, dates back to his youth, where he kept various species as pets and even trained hawks.
Recently, during a phone call, the sound of a raven interrupted our conversation, leading to a visit to meet Mr. Kennedy’s pet ravens at his home. He shared stories about his fascination with birds and his efforts to tame the ravens that nested in his backyard.
Mr. Kennedy’s wife, Cheryl Hines, also shared anecdotes about their experience with birds, including a comical encounter with an aggressive emu named Toby. Despite the challenges, their bond with the ravens remains strong, with the birds eagerly awaiting Mr. Kennedy’s return from the campaign trail.
During a feeding session with the ravens, Mr. Kennedy noted their cautious behavior and speculated that they were wary of the camera. Despite their initial reluctance, the ravens eventually cooperated and even joined Mr. Kennedy for meditations on his balcony.
Mr. Kennedy’s unique connection with wildlife, especially his pet ravens, has become a point of interest in his presidential campaign. While his presence in the election remains unpredictable, his interactions with the ravens showcase a different side of his personality.
As we parted ways, Mr. Kennedy shared photos and videos of the ravens finally coming closer to him, a testament to the bond he has formed with these intelligent birds.
His social media posts about the ravens have garnered attention, with followers jokingly referring to him as “Edgar Allen Potus.” Despite the challenges, Mr. Kennedy’s passion for wildlife remains a significant aspect of his personal and political identity.
