What colors typically describe the exterior coloration of adult *Dendroaspis polylepis*?
Answer
Olive, greenish-brown, or grey
The common name 'black mamba' is misleading regarding the snake's exterior appearance, as its actual coloration is highly variable and usually muted to serve as camouflage in diverse African habitats. Adult specimens typically display shades such as olive, greenish-brown, or grey. While some individuals might occasionally lean toward a dusky, purplish-brown or even appear uniformly black, this presentation is described as the exception rather than the general rule for the mature species overall.
Related Questions
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