New Delhi: Bill Haast, a scientist-turned-snake-handler, achieved legendary status by surviving a staggering 173 venomous snake bites, with at least 20 of them being life-threatening. His incredible story of dedication to snake handling and venom extraction for medical research continues to captivate the world.
Bill Haast was known for his unparalleled commitment to snakes. He maintained a collection of approximately 10,000 snakes, representing 200 species of poisonous reptiles from around the globe. Among these were cobras, green mambas, sea snakes, African tree snakes, cottonmouths, rattlesnakes, kraits, tiger snakes, and vipers. Haast's primary mission was to extract venom for medical research, specifically to develop treatments for snakebite victims.
The heroic antibody donor
Haast's selflessness extended beyond snake handling. He traveled worldwide to donate his antibody-rich blood to snakebite victims. Over 60 years, he had built his immunity by injecting himself daily with a concoction of venoms from 32 different venomous snake species. This remarkable feat showcased his dedication to saving lives.
A lifelong fascination?
Haast's journey with snakes began at a young age. He suffered his first serious snake bite at just 12 years old, courtesy of a timber rattlesnake at a Scout camp. His fascination with these creatures grew, and his first exotic snake was a diamondback rattlesnake from Florida.
From smuggler to saviour
During the Great Depression, Haast worked as a flight engineer with Pan American World Airways, where he smuggled various poisonous snakes, including his first cobra. In 1946, he opened the Miami Serpentarium, where he demonstrated his snake milking techniques to the public. Annually, 50,000 visitors flocked to witness Haast extracting venom and supplying 36,000 venom samples to pharmaceutical laboratories.
Building immunity through mithridatism
Haast's incredible resistance to snake bites was achieved through a process known as mithridatism. Despite enduring around 20 cobra bites, he never required anti-venom treatment. His body had become remarkably resilient to the effects of venom.
Bill Haast passed away at the age of 100 from natural causes at his home in Punta Gorda, Florida, on June 15, 2011. His legacy lives on as a testament to the extraordinary feats humans can achieve when driven by unwavering dedication and a desire to save lives.