What size of prey are adult Western Green Mambas capable of consuming in captivity?
Answer
A half to three-quarter grown rat
The high metabolic demands of this fast-moving reptile necessitate substantial caloric intake, which is reflected in the prey size adults can consume. As the snake rapidly grows, often doubling its initial size within the first year, its prey requirements increase proportionally. Adults are documented as being capable of successfully consuming and digesting prey items equivalent to a half to three-quarter grown rat, a significant step up from the small pinky mice offered to hatchlings.
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