black mamba

black mamba, (Dendroaspis polylepis), species of mamba snake known for its large size, quickness, and extremely potent venom. It lives in sub-Saharan Africa and is one of the continent’s most dangerous snakes.

The average black mamba is 2–2.5 metres (6.6–8.2 feet) long, with a maximum length of 4.3 metres (14 feet). Despite its name, the snake is not black. Instead, it ranges in colour from gray to dark brown, with a lighter underside. The black actually refers to the colour of the inside of its mouth; green mambas and other snakes have white mouths. The black mamba is found in rocky savannas and lowland forests. Unlike the other mamba species, the black mamba is not primarily arboreal, preferring the ground, where it often sleeps in termite mounds or tree hollows. One of the fastest snakes, it is capable of speeds of more than 12 miles (19 km) per hour. The black mamba typically lays 6 to 20 eggs. Prey consists primarily of small mammals and birds.

Although it has an aggressive reputation, the black mamba is generally shy and nervous, and it will use its incredible speed to escape threats. However, if disturbed or cornered, the snake may rear up and threaten with an open mouth and a slightly expanded or flattened neck (or hood) before striking; once a black mamba attacks, it will bite its victim repeatedly. Its extremely toxic venom—two drops of which will reportedly kill most humans—attacks both the nervous system and the heart. Even though most bites are fatal, it is responsible for only a small number of deaths annually, and unprovoked attacks on humans have not been proved. In the wild, black mambas will typically live at least 11 years, while those in captivity have life spans of more than 20 years.