The infamous black mamba (dendroaspis polylepis) is found throughout Namibia north of the Naukluft mountains, but avoiding the sand seas and arid coastal desert. This snake grows to a maximum length of 4.5m, making it Africas largest venomous snake. The colour is usually a light grey with older specimens becoming blackish, juveniles are pale grey. They get the name black of inside of their mouths, which they display when threatened. These snake are found both on the ground and in trees where they actively hunt for rodents, birds and other suitable sized mammals. Mambas may hunt from a permanent lair, left undisturbed. These are shy creatures, seldom permitting close approach,within 40m. If threatened this snake will spread a narrow, cobra like hood. It will gape exposing the black inner lining of its mouth.The tongue will wave, slowly up and down. If not left alone this snake will strike repeatedly. Black Mambas have an incredibly potent neurotoxic venom which is rapidly absorbed by body tissue, However, you have plenty of time to reach a hospital. First aid: keep the victim calm and reassured Keep the victim still as possible transport victim to hospital ASAP If medical assistance is not close by Apply pressure bandage and immobilise limb with splint to reduce movement Resort to artificial respiration if needed. Mamba venom will replace morphine in the near future as test have show that compounds in venom from this snake neutralizes pain much quicker than morphine, without any of those nasty side effects! THIS newly discovered protein is called mambalgins. Myths: mambas dont chase people. Mambas wont take out 50 heads of cattle if they pass underneath a tree. And no these snakes do not stand on the tip of its tail Lastly, Although these snakes can travel at speeds up to 19km/h, they will not chase you down and bite you. They will use the speed to get away from you.
Posted on: Thu, 04 Dec 2014 21:43:15 +0000
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