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Snakebite Survivors Honored at 80th Rattlesnake Hunt
12 Apr
Summary
- Tom Kinder received a certificate for surviving a rattlesnake bite.
- The 80th Waynoka Rattlesnake Hunt celebrated unique Oklahoma traditions.
- The hunt has evolved from rifle use to metal catchers since the 1940s.
The 80th annual Waynoka Rattlesnake Hunt, a unique Oklahoma tradition, continues to draw visitors from across the region. This year, attendees like Tom Kinder were recognized for surviving rattlesnake bites, receiving certificates that are now part of the festival's history.
The festival, which began in the 1940s, has transformed over the decades. Originally organized to clear local lands of rattlesnakes using firearms, it now employs metal catchers and focuses on education and community engagement.
Despite declining attendance and fewer organizers, the Waynoka Saddle Club members remain dedicated to preserving this tradition. The event features hunting, cooking, and consumption of rattlesnakes, embodying a distinct cultural practice in Oklahoma.
Upcoming rattlesnake events in Oklahoma include the Apache Rattlesnake Festival and the Mangum Rattlesnake Derby, showcasing the enduring popularity of these unique gatherings.
