Black Mambas use their incredible speed to escape threats, not to hunt prey. #ReptileMonday
Classification: VERY DANGEROUS
This is by far the largest venomous snake in Africa with a
maximum length of 4.5 m (specimens over 3.8 m are rare). Despite its reputation
it is a shy, elusive snake that is quick to escape but will not hesitate to
strike repeatedly if cornered.
It is active during the day, often basking near a hole in an
anthill or large rock crevice where it quickly disappears into if disturbed.
When threatened it will gape exposing the black inner lining of the mouth and
it may form a narrow hood.
The venom of this snake is potently neurotoxic and may cause
difficulty with breathing within half an hour. Symptoms include a numbness of
the lips, slurred speech, ptosis and progressive weakness. Antivenom is
effective but often required in large quantities (10 – 15 vials).
They get their name not from their skin color, which tends
to be olive to gray, but rather from the blue-black color of the inside of
their mouth, which they display when threatened.
AVERAGE LIFE SPAN IN THE WILD: 11 or more years
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