Want to know where and when to find Black Mamba? opspoor shows recent sightings across South Africa's parks and when each species is usually active.
Where to see Black Mamba in South Africa
About the Black Mamba
The black mamba is a large, highly venomous African snake recognised by its long slender body, coffin-shaped head and dark mouth. Despite its name, its body colour is usually grey, olive or brown rather than black. It is primarily associated with woodland, savanna and rocky habitats and can move rapidly both on the ground and in trees. It feeds mainly on small mammals and birds, using its potent neurotoxic venom to subdue prey. When threatened, it may raise the front of its body and spread its narrow neck into a defensive posture.
How to identify the Black Mamba
Very long, slender snake with a narrow coffin-shaped head, smooth scales and a long tapering tail. Adults are usually olive, grey-brown or dark grey to black, often becoming darker toward the head. When threatened it raises the front third of its body and spreads a narrow hood.
Did you know?
The Black Mamba is one of Africa’s fastest snakes and can move rapidly across open ground, but it generally prefers to escape rather than confront a threat.
Also known as: Mamba, Swartmamba
Planning a safari? Pick a park above to see when and where to look for Black Mamba, and log your own sightings in opspoor, even with no signal.