Eastern green mamba (Dendroaspis angusticeps)
Photo: David~O / CC BY 2.0 · via Wikimedia Commons

Reptile · Venomous snake

Eastern green mamba care guide

Dendroaspis angusticeps

ExpertMedically significant venomMay need a permit

The eastern green mamba is a expert-level venomous snake from Coastal East Africa. Adults reach 150–200 cm and live 15–20 years in captivity. Arboreal; design the enclosure so perches can be serviced from outside.

  • Enclosure 120 × 60 × 150 cm
  • Temp 26–29°C
  • Humidity 60–80%

How much does a eastern green mamba cost in Canada?

Animal$1000–2500Typical captive-bred price
Bioactive enclosure$1860–3200Enclosure $1050–2000 · equipment $190–420 · bioactive supplies ≈ $650
Yearly upkeep$400–700Food, supplements, bulbs, power, vet fund
First year total$3260–6400All prices CAD, estimates

Eastern green mamba quick facts

Skill level
Expert
Adult size
150–200 cm
Lifespan
15–20 years
Activity
Diurnal
Native range
Coastal East Africa
Minimum enclosure
120 × 60 × 150 cm (47 × 24 × 59 in, ≈ 285 US gal)
Housing
Best kept alone.
Temperature
26–29°C
Humidity
60–80%
UVB
Recommended
Diet
Carnivore – frozen/thawed mice
Bioactive style
Tropical arboreal

Eastern green mamba enclosure & bioactive setup

Give one adult at least 120 × 60 × 150 cm (47 × 24 × 59 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a tropical arboreal bioactive build.

  1. Leaf litter2 cm
  2. Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix8 cm
  3. Drainage – clay bio balls5 cm

Most of the action is vertical – keep the soil moist but not wet, and focus on perches and dense planting.

Temperature: 26–29°C. Humidity: 60–80%. UVB: Recommended.

Some Canadian provinces and many municipalities restrict or ban this species. Check your local bylaws and any provincial permit rules before buying.

What does a eastern green mamba eat?

Carnivore – frozen/thawed mice. Feed one appropriately sized thawed mouse every 7 days.

Handling, temperament & health

Shy but extremely fast; tools only.

Health watch: Watch for dehydration and stress.

Cleaning & maintenance schedule

Daily

  • Mist to raise humidity – usually a heavy evening misting with a dry-down by day.
  • Check temperatures at perch height.

Weekly

  • Feed; remove uneaten food (and diet dishes after 24–48 h).
  • Check the drainage layer and prune vines.
  • Look for stuck shed on toes and tails.

Monthly

  • Top up leaf litter.
  • Check branches and mounts are still secure.
  • Clean glass, vents and misting nozzles.

Yearly

  • Refresh the top of the soil in open areas.
  • Replace UVB bulbs (if used) on schedule.

Recommended for a eastern green mamba bioactive

Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (120 × 60 × 150 cm).

Eastern green mamba FAQ

Is the eastern green mamba good for beginners?

No – the eastern green mamba is a specialist animal for expert keepers only. Shy but extremely fast; tools only.

What size enclosure does a eastern green mamba need?

At least 120 × 60 × 150 cm (about 47 × 24 × 59 inches, roughly 285 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.

How much does a eastern green mamba cost in Canada?

Typically $1000–2500 CAD to buy, about $1860–3200 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $400–700 CAD a year to keep.

What temperature and humidity does a eastern green mamba need?

Temperature: 26–29°C. Humidity: 60–80%.

What does a eastern green mamba eat?

Carnivore – frozen/thawed mice. Feed one appropriately sized thawed mouse every 7 days.

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This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.