The black mamba is named for the inside of its mouth, not its brownish-grey skin. It is fast, tall when alert and usually avoids humans. Snakebite is rare, but guides tell you what to do.
Snakes
Black Mamba
Dendroaspis polylepis
Africa's fastest snake, shy but highly venomous.
Size
Up to 3-4 m
Lifespan
11 years
Diet
Rodents, birds and small mammals.
Habitat
Savannah, rocky hills and woodland.
About the black mamba
Did you know?
01
It can move at about 20 km/h over short distances.
02
It is shy and prefers to flee.
03
Its venom is neurotoxic.
When to see it
Seen all year round; the best sightings depend on where you are.
Jan
Feb
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May
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Trips that go there
Where to meet the black mamba
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