The black mamba (Dendroaspis polylepis) is one of Africa's most feared snakes: a long, fast, highly venomous species. Despite its name it is not black but olive to gunmetal-grey; the 'black' refers to the inky lining of its mouth. It preys on small mammals and birds across the Kruger's bushveld.
Black Mamba
Name
Black Mamba [Dendroaspis polylepis]
Appearance
The Black Mamba is a large, sleek snake with a thin, coffin-shaped head. The snake has smooth scales. The snake’s back is not black but differs in colour from an olive-brown to gunmetal. The belly can contain dark spots but is usually pale grey-green. The snake gets its name from the black lining in its mouth.
Diet
Black Mambas tend to feed on dassies and rats but it also feeds on nestling birds.
Distribution
Black Mambas are present in the northern parts of the subcontinent (apart from the desert), stretching south down the coast of Kwa-Zulu Natal to Port St. Johns and elsewhere, to Senegal and Somalia.
Breeding
Eggs are laid in clutches from 12-17 in termite nests and decaying vegetation. Baby Black Mambas hatch in 80-90 days. Baby Black Mambas can reach 2 meters in length during the first year after birth.
Venom
Black Mambas are equipped with neurotoxic (This venom attacks your nervous system and it reduces brain activity) and cardiotoxic (This venom attacks your heart and reduces blood flow to your body) venom, on average a bite from a black mamba can deliver 100-120mg of venom. It only takes 10-15mg of venom to be fatal to humans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called a black mamba if it isn't black?
The black mamba's body is not black at all, ranging from olive-brown to gunmetal-grey with a pale grey-green belly. The name comes from the deep black lining inside its mouth, which the snake displays with a gaping threat posture when it feels cornered.
How dangerous is a black mamba's venom?
The black mamba's venom is both neurotoxic, attacking the nervous system, and cardiotoxic, affecting the heart. A single bite can deliver about 100 to 120 mg of venom, while as little as 10 to 15 mg can be fatal to a person. Prompt medical treatment with antivenom is essential after any bite.
What does a black mamba eat?
Black mambas prey mainly on small mammals such as dassies (rock hyrax) and rats, and also take nestling birds. They are active daytime hunters that use speed and keen eyesight to catch prey, subduing it rapidly with their potent venom before swallowing it whole.
Are you likely to encounter a black mamba on safari?
Snake sightings on a Kruger safari are uncommon, as most snakes, including the black mamba, are shy and move away long before you get close. On a guided game drive you stay in the vehicle, so the risk is very low. Bites almost always happen when a snake is cornered or handled.
