Our Privacy/Cookie Policy contains detailed information about the types of cookies & related technology on our site, and some ways to opt out. By using the site, you agree to the uses of cookies and other technology as outlined in our Policy, and to our Terms of Use.

Close

How Does the Black Mamba Snake Protect Itself?

i Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Getty Images

Common from the Horn of Africa to Namibia, the black mamba (Dendroaspis polylepis) has a reputation as the world’s deadliest snake. This feared and respected snake is not black; rather, its name comes from the inside of its mouth, revealed by a threatened mamba on the verge of striking. The subject of local myths and legends, black mambas prefer wooded areas and rocky hills with ample cover. Reaching lengths of up to 14 feet, the black mamba is Africa’s longest venomous snake.

Venomous Bite

While the black mamba only bites as a last resort when cornered and unable to flee, the snake is most known and feared for the toxicity of its venom. A black mamba strikes not once but repeatedly, its fangs delivering a lethal combination of neurotoxins and cardiotoxins. Just two drops of this venom will paralyze and stop the heart of the snake’s victim. Before antivenin was available, a black mamba bite was 100 percent fatal within 20 minutes of the attack.

Avoidance

The black mamba’s most practiced means of protection is avoidance. Though its potent venom earned it a deadly reputation, these snakes are shy and secretive, almost always seeking to escape rather than attack when confronted. Black mambas generally avoid human settlements and are unlikely to enter peoples’ homes.

Speed

Equipped to master its avoidance technique, the black mamba is among the fastest snakes in the world. Across short distances black mambas can move at speeds up to 12 mph. The snake glides across surfaces with up to a third of its body not even touching the ground. They are also agile climbers, slithering quickly up trees to evade threats or would-be predators.

Solitary Nature

Black mambas are not social creatures, nor are they territorial. While other animals may get injured or killed defending their territory or their young, black mambas prefer to stay out of harm’s way. The only time these snakes engage each other in combat is during mating season; they do not associate with each other at any other time. Neither the male nor the female raises the offspring or defends the nest. After the female lays eggs, she abandons them, never to return. Hatchlings are born on their own and must fend for themselves from birth.