This Snake's Venom Will Kill You in 20 Minutes
A black mamba's venom is so lethal that even after the snake is dead, its venom can kill if it enters the bloodstream.
More About This show
The bite of the black mamba is known by South African locals as the "kiss of death." A single strike can deliver enough neurotoxic venom to kill 15 grown men. It has one of Africa's worst reputations, but does it deserve its bad rap? Behind the bad press lies a mercurial reptile that is quite shy. Follow a female mamba looking for a home to incubate her eggs while avoiding her main enemy: humans. Then join snake bounty hunter Simon Keys, whose black mamba sanctuary offers a unique look at the secret behavior of this much-maligned snake.
More From This Show
Related Videos
Related Shows
Unlock Full Episodes
Access even more free Smithsonian Channel full episodes and documentaries online through participating TV providers.
Select Your Provider to Begin
Don't See Your Provider?
Find out if your television provider carries Smithsonian Channel on air.