Ring-necked Snake
Diadophis punctatus
Conservation Status
Least ConcernReptilia · Colubridae
About
Diadophis punctatus, commonly known as the ring-necked snake or ringneck snake, is a small, harmless species of colubrid snake found throughout much of the United States, as well as south in Central Mexico and as far north as Quebec, Canada. Ring-necked snakes are generally fossorial and somewhat secretive, by nature, and, as a nocturnal species, are rarely seen during the daytime. These snakes are believed to be fairly abundant throughout most of their range, though no scientific evaluation supports this hypothesis. Scientific research is lacking for the species, despite their apparently common status, and more in-depth investigations are greatly needed. It is the only species within the genus Diadophis and, currently, 14 subspecies are identified, though many herpetologists question the morphologically based classifications.
Fun Fact
The ring-necked snake is perhaps best known for its unique defensive posture: when threatened, it curls its tail into a tight coil, partially rolls onto its back, and shows its bright red-orange underside and ventral surface.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Found within open woodlands near rocky hillsides, or in wetter environments with abundant cover or woody debris, as well as ponderosa pine-Oregon white oak, mixed forest, and shrub steppe.
Diet
Diet of the ring-necked snake consists primarily of smaller salamanders, earthworms, and slugs, but they also sometimes eat lizards, frogs, and some juvenile snakes of other species.
Lifespan
To be updated
Threats
- Habitat Change
- Human Disturbance