Black Mamba Facts You Might Not Know

As said above, the Black Mamba is the deadliest snake in the world and can be very lethal to its predators. If it bites you, the chances of survival are next to impossible. So let us take a look at some great facts about Black Mamba.

They are not Black

One amazing Black Mamba facts is that one may think they may be black in color as the name goes. But in reality, the Black Mamba snake is usually brownish, olive or grayish in color. It gets its name due to the blue-black color of the inside of its mouth which it displays whenever it is threatened or attacks its rivals.

Longest, yet Fastest

That’s right! The Black Mamba species despite their long length which makes them the largest African snake are even much quicker than you might have imagined. The lethal snakes can reach a length of up to 14feet which is 4.5meters although the average length is around 8.2feet. The Black Mamba speed is more than an average human. These snakes can slither at is 20 km per hour, which is frightening, to say the least.

Lethal, yet Shy

Yes, you heard that right, black mambas are usually shy by nature. They mind their own business and most often try to escape when confronted. But if you corner them up, then they can lift almost a third of their body up the ground, spread their cobra like neck flap and destroy the opponents within seconds.

Possess a very Hazardous Poison

The poison found in the black mambas is a combination of two highly hazardous toxins. It strikes its enemies with multiple bites to release high levels of potent neuro- and cardiotoxin. This dangerous poison from Black Mamba bite is 100% fatal and can cause death with a period of 20 minutes if not earlier. Antivenin for its bite is rarely available and hence many deaths are caused by this predator.

A Short Lifespan

Ironically, the most venomous snakes in the world black mambas, which shorten the lifespan of others, themselves don’t live for long as well. The average lifespan of a black mamba is barely 11 years. It may get even short if they don’t live in their wild surroundings.

Have its own Predators

Despite its big size, the black mamba itself isn’t safe from all species. It has many predators which can avoid its venomous bites and kill it. Some of its predators include mongoose, foxes, and jackals.

Mates from Springs to Summers

The black mambas usually start mating during spring. They may continue mating till the end of summer. Sometimes the males end up fighting with each other to get an opportunity to mate with the female.

Female lays between 10 and 25 Eggs

The female mamba lays the eggs in its nest on the ground.  The high temperature is very important for the eggs to incubate. The Black Mamba baby comes out after three months and takes care of themselves as soon as they are born.