We had a great guide on our trip to Tanzania. Khalilu Munisi with Wilkinson Tours was with us for ten days, telling us all about the Big Five, the Ugly Five, and every critter in between.
While we were stopped in Tarangire Park to watch birds, a huge black snake suddenly slithered across the road. (Along with being attacked by lions, another good reason to never leave the jeep!) Khalilu identified it as a black mamba, one of the deadliest snakes in the world. How deadly? Around 100% of black mamba bites are fatal. I’d say that’s pretty deadly.
It’s faster than a king cobra and its venom takes effect more quickly. A black mamba bite can kill a lion. One of the mamba’s only serious foes is the secretary bird. Khalilu told us he’s seen them fighting, and the bird won.
Much as I’d love to watch that particular fight someday, that snake moved fast. I want to be far out of striking range!
NOTES: The black mamba is named for the black colour of the inside of its mouth. © Jadi Campbell 2026. All photos © Uwe Hartmann. To see more of Uwe’s animal photos and pics from our trips go to viewpics.de.
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