The snake recognized by a yellow ring around its neck is commonly known as the Ringneck Snake (Diadophis punctatus). This small, secretive snake is widespread across North America, known for its distinctive coloration. The prominent neck ring is a defining feature, distinguishing it from many other species.
The Ringneck Snake’s Unique Look
The Ringneck Snake’s most striking characteristic is the vibrant yellow, orange, or reddish ring behind its head. This band often stands out against its dark body, which can be slate gray, bluish-gray, olive, brown, or smoky black. The head tends to be slightly darker than the rest of the body.
The underside of the Ringneck Snake presents a contrasting bright yellow, orange, or red coloration. This belly might feature crescent-shaped black spots along its margins, or a broken line of spots down the center. Some populations may have reduced or absent neck bands and ventral coloration. These small, slender snakes typically measure 25–38 cm (10–15 inches) in length, though some can reach 46 cm (18 inches). Their bodies are covered in smooth scales, usually arranged in 15-17 rows.
Where Ringneck Snakes Live and How They Behave
Ringneck Snakes are found across North America, from southern Canada, through the United States, and into central Mexico. They inhabit diverse environments like moist woodlands, forests, rocky hillsides, and suburban gardens. They prefer areas with ample cover, seeking refuge under rocks, logs, leaf litter, and other debris.
These snakes are primarily nocturnal or crepuscular, active during the night or at dawn and dusk. Their diet consists of small, soft-bodied prey, including earthworms, slugs, salamanders, small frogs, and sometimes other small snakes or lizards. Reproduction usually occurs in spring. Females lay 3 to 10 white eggs in moist, covered locations, often in communal nests, with hatching in August or September.
Understanding Their Safety and Conservation
Ringneck Snakes are considered harmless to humans. While they possess a mild venom delivered by small, rear-facing fangs, it is primarily used to subdue prey and poses no threat to people or pets. They are not aggressive and flee or hide when threatened.
A defensive behavior involves coiling their tail into a tight spiral, exposing their brightly colored underside as a warning display. If this deterrent is unsuccessful, they may release a foul-smelling musk. Ringneck Snakes play a role in their ecosystems by preying on invertebrates and small amphibians. They are common in most parts of their range, but can face localized threats from habitat loss and fragmentation.