Was mamba stolen?

Staff at Pretoria Zoo now fear the 2m long black mamba, known as "Houdini", that went missing last week might have been stolen.

The snake was declared missing from its terrarium early last Monday when it could not be found during a routine feeding, cleaning and inspection.

Marketing manager Craig Allenby said Houdini has not been found despite an extensive search.

"We have even outsourced the expertise of technicians [who used] thermal imaging cameras around the area.

"What we are left with after these searches is to look at theft as an option, though there is a possibility that he is still on the premises."

Allenby said the zoo is currently conducting an internal investigation to explore the possibility of theft.

Black mambas generally feed on small rodents and birds, and are known as being protective, rather than aggressive.

According to reptile experts at the zoo, a black mamba would usually make its way upwards, due to its tree-dwelling nature.

Black mambas are one of the most dangerous and venomous snakes in the world. Should it be spotted, members of the public must call professionals rather than attempt to catch it themselves.