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The black mamba (Dendroaspis polylepis) belongs to the Elapidae family of snakes. It is the second largest venomous snake in the world. An adult black mamba can grow up to 14 feet (4.3 m) in length. The black mamba's skin is not actually black, it gets its name from the colour of the roof of its mouth.

The black mamba lives in the south and the east of Africa. It is known around the world for its dangerous venom. It is very fast (it reaches speeds of 12 miles per hour) and can also climb very fast. The black mamba lives 10-11 years.