Jameson's Mamba

Jameson's mamba (Dendroaspis jamesoni) is a slender, arboreal elapid inhabiting the vast rainforests of the Congo Basin and adjacent West African forest regions. It is closely related to other mamba species but is distinguished by its darker tail.

As with all mambas, it possesses potent neurotoxic venom and is considered medically significant, although its remote forest habitat limits frequent contact with people.

A slender, arboreal mamba with a notable color contrast at the tail.

• Bright to olive green body coloration
• Distinctive dark blue-black or blackish tail tip, giving rise to the alternate name black-tailed mamba
• Some scales, especially along the flanks, may show black edging
• Slender body and long tail suited for climbing
• Adults typically 1.8-2.5 m

Found in lowland tropical rainforest and adjacent forest-edge habitats across the Congo Basin and parts of West Africa, including Cameroon, Gabon, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is strongly arboreal, occupying the forest canopy and understory.

Diurnal and agile, hunting birds, eggs, and small mammals among tree branches and foliage. It tends to be shy and quick to flee when disturbed, though it can defend itself vigorously if cornered. Reproduction is oviparous, with clutches of eggs laid in concealed sites.