Very rare footage of Bill Haast with shocking cobra bite!
 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IoByplZraSY

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hDAaXQJ9BtU

I talked to Mr Bill a few times in Punta Gordo he is missed very much.

In 1984 Connie and I happened to be in Miami and stopped in at the Serpentarium. Talked with Bill and come to find out that was the last day (I believe that is what he said) that the Serpentarium was going to be open in Miami. Got him to autograph one of his books for us. Seemed like such a sad day, however.

He was a great guy I dont think he ever got over what happened with the young child falling in the pit

Yeah, I think that broke his enthusiasm for having an attraction open to the public.

When Connie and I talked to him that last visit, he mentioned that he tried futility to sell the attraction to Miami but they weren't interested.

I agree he was a great guy him and Tommy Yarbrough in my book are the greats.

Man I miss those guys so many great stores.