A 2,47 metre-long black mamba was rescued from the water on Addington Beach in KwaZulu-Natal on Tuesday, August 25. The South African Association for Marine Biological Research (SAAMBR) received a call from the Metro Search and Rescue and immediately responded, the SAAMBR said in a statement.
SAAMBR herpetologists Craig Smith and Lesley Labuschagne managed to gently capture the distressed creature and put it in a container.
‘The snake was so exhausted that when we approached her she hardly even noticed us. She was so easy to handle and thankfully remained calm whilst we transported her back to Ushaka Sea World where our resident veterinarian, Dr Francois Lampen was standing by to assess her condition,’ said Smith.
‘Black mambas are uncommonly found along the coastal belt, preferring deep valley areas with thick vegetation. They are found in areas such as Reservoir Hills, Westville and Krantzkloof, to name a few. This particular snake had possibly come down through the canals and rivers that run into the harbour,’ the SAAMBR added.
The mamba will remain at uShaka Marine World until she has regained her strength, after which she will be released in a suitable habitat.
Take a look at the incredibly large reptile going for a swim:
The Durban beachfront had a rather unusual bather today when this spectacular Black Mamba decided to give surfing a go.
Posted by Cameron Johnston on Tuesday, 25 August 2020
Image credit: Screenshot
