The Black Mamba: An Animal to be Respected

The Black Mamba has been known for its ability to kill humans since ancient times. This venomous snake can deliver a fatal dose of neurotoxins that cause paralysis and respiratory failure. Toxins are mainly composed of three compounds: alpha-bungarotoxin (alpha-BGT), beta-bungarotoxins (beta-BGT), and gamma-bungarotxins (gamma-BGT). Alpha-BGT binds to acetylcholine receptors in the motor nerve endings while beta-BGT blocks the release of neurotransmitters from presynaptic membranes. Gamma-BGT is believed to inhibit calcium channels in muscle cells.

Here are 12 interesting facts about Black Mambas.

1. Black mambas are not venomous snakes. They can however kill if they bite you. Black mambas, like other cobras, are non-venomous constrictors that use their fangs to subdue prey. There are two species of black mambas; the common black mamba (Dendroaspis polylepis) and the Mozambique black mamba (D. Mozambique). Both are endemic to South Africa and have similar diets but differ in appearance. The male has a yellowish body and head while the female has a browner body and darker head. Their range extends from southern Angola through Namibia and Botswana into northern Zimbabwe and Zambia.

2. Black mambas prefer warm climates and thrive best in areas with abundant rainfall. They are most active at night and are usually found near water sources. Black mambas may be encountered anywhere where they find food. When threatened, they raise their heads high above the ground, open their mouths wide, and hiss loudly. The hissing sound is produced by a special organ located inside the upper jaw called the laryngotracheal sac. This organ contains air pockets that vibrate rapidly. The vibrations produce a loud noise that sounds much louder than the snake's actual voice.

3. Black mambas eat small mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, crustaceans, insects, and even some fruits and vegetables. They are opportunistic predators and will attack any animal that gets too close. They are known for being extremely aggressive towards humans and will strike at anything that comes close. If provoked, they may coil around their victim and squeeze until they die.

4. Black mambas do not hibernate. Instead, they seek out warmer temperatures after the winter rains. In the summer months, they are often seen sunning themselves along roadsides or under large trees.

5. Black mambas live about 5 years in the wild. They reach sexual maturity between 2 and 4 years old. Females lay eggs year-round, but the average clutch size ranges from 20 to 40 eggs. Eggs hatch in about 60 days. Young black mambas are born blind and naked. They grow rapidly and are independent in 6 weeks. Mothers who do not usually live with them, leave them alone.

6. Black mambas can be identified by their distinctive markings. On both sides of their bodies, they have dark stripes running down their bellies. These markings help identify individual snakes. Each snake has its unique pattern and coloration.

7. Black Mambas can live anywhere from 15-20 years. They eat mainly rodents and other small animals. They like to stay in dark areas where they feel safe from predators. Their diet consists of about 50% rodents and 50% reptiles.

8. Black Mambas come in two different colors; white and yellow. White ones are usually younger than yellow ones. The yellow ones are bigger and stronger than the white ones.

9. Black Mambas have no natural enemies. No known disease affects them.

10. Black Mambas live in Africa and South America.

11. Black Mambas sometimes travel long distances to find food. They use their sense of smell to locate prey. Some people say that they can detect the human scent and follow it.

12. There are no known treatments for black mamba bites. However, if you survive the initial attack, you should seek immediate medical attention. You can expect to receive treatment at the hospital where you were bitten. Your doctor will monitor your condition closely until you recover completely.