200 THE SNAKES’ OF ‘SOUTH “AFRICA: 
light and shade, climate, colouration of the surroundings, and 
nature of the diet, seem the most likely factors in determining 
this variety in colour. 
A DIFFICULT PROBLEM. 
The diversity of opinion is very great as to whether the Green 
Mamba changes colour when it attains the full adult stage. Many 
colonists assert most positively that the Green Mamba has never 
been known to attain a length over nine feet, and that no Black 
Mamba has ever been seen of a lesser length than eight feet. 
Some say the green variety changes colour, others assert the con- 
trary, while others claim to have seen and killed young specimens 
of both varieties. However, I usually found on inquiry that most 
of the opinions were put forth without any actual knowledge. 
Other persons confused different species of snakes with the Mamba. 
A well-known gentleman living at Stamford Hill, Durban, 
writes to me as follows: ‘‘ Mambas are generally found amongst 
roots and rubbish, especially the exposed roots of the bamboos, 
which have been grubbed round and left after having been cut 
down. Those I have seen have been from eighteen inches 
upwards, and when disturbed will attack at once. They make 
straight for you.” 
Matthew Bedlington, Esq., of the Berea, Durban, says: 
“Some eighteen months ago I saw a young Black Mamba about 
five inches in length. Colour glossy black, eyes disproportionately 
large, and very glittering. Again, only a few months ago, I killed 
a young Black Mamba, length seven inches. About the same 
time two Black Mambas were killed, length eight feet each. I 
have not seen or heard of a Green Mamba exceeding eight feet, 
while Black Mambas of twelve feet and upwards are common.” 
The late Mr. C told me that he was once out shooting 
attended by a Kafir, when the latter, who happened to be some 
distance in front, ran back shouting ““ Mamba, Baas!”’ and Mr. 
C ——— saw the snake chasing the native, but, owing to the 
man’s position, he was unable to shoot. The Mamba reared 
up and struck the Kafir at the back of his neck, and he shortly 
afterwards died. I merely mention this incident as proof of the 
statement that a Black Mamba will chase a person.” (The 
