Some practical info about the black mamba from this website:
http://www.kruger2canyons.com/mamba.htm
Contrary to popular perception, Donald says the snake is not aggressive and will do anything in its power to head away from humans rather than attack.
If this is not possible and it feels threatened it will raise its front and head off the ground and flatten its hood to deter the perceived threat.
If still threatened it will bite in several quick strikes. The biggest danger for man is when he attempts to kill the Black Mamba. “It will defend itself to the maximum,” says Donald.
Black mamba venom is highly toxic. Two drops of venom can kill a person and a mamba can have up to 20 drops in its fangs.
The venom contains both neurotoxins and cardio toxins. The first affects the nervous system, while the latter attacks the heart.
The initial bite symptoms include slight swelling where bitten and/ or pain or a light burning sensation, the loss of control of the tongue and jaw and slurred speech, tunnel and blurred vision, drowsiness, paralysis of all muscle groups and mental confusion.
The bite is life-threatening if these symptoms appear within an hour of the bite. The respiratory system is especially affected.
Not all bites are fatal. Depending on where the snake bit and how much venom was injected, one could survive the bite – even without the use of antivenin.
However, it is critical that a person receives professional medical care a soon a possible, as a bite where the venom got directly into the bloodstream is usually fatal without intervention.
The sooner a person is treated after the bite, the better his or her chances of survival.
A Black Mamba antidote is administered where necessary, but some people may be allergic.
In some cases, under proper professional medical care, it is better to allow the human body to heal itself.
This is the one to be really afraid of:
http://www.chilliworld.com/SP6.asp?p_id=72