Black Mamba (Dendroaspis polylepis)

The black mamba (Dendroaspis polylepis) is Africa's most feared snake, combining extreme venom toxicity with aggressive speed. Capable of striking repeatedly at 12 mph (20 km/h), its neurotoxic venom can kill humans within 20 minutes without treatment. Despite its name, the snake's grayish-brown body features a distinctive inky-black mouth lining when threatened. Growing up to 14 feet (4.3 meters), these territorial reptiles inhabit savannas and rocky areas across sub-Saharan Africa. Their combination of lethal venom, lightning strikes, and defensive aggression earns them legendary status among herpetologists and locals alike.