The ringneck snake (Diadophis punctatus) is a colubrid snake species. It is found throughout much of the United States, central Mexico, and south eastern Canada. They are best known for their unique defense posture of curling up their tails exposing their bright red-orange posterior, ventral surface when threatened. Ring-necked snakes are believed to be fairly abundant throughout most of their range though no scientific evaluation supports this theory. Scientific research is lacking for the ring-necked snake and more in-depth investigations are greatly needed[2]. It is the only species within the genus Diadophis, and currently fourteen subspecies are identified, but many herpetologists question the morphologically-based classifications.
Ten Facts about Ringneck Snake
- Ring-necked snakes are secretive, nocturnal snakes that are rarely seen during the day time.
- Typically adults range from 25 to 38 cm.
- Ring-necked snakes are fairly common throughout much of the United Sates extending into Southeastern Canada and central Mexico.
- Ringneck snakes can be found in virtually any habitat but seem to prefer wooded areas.
- Like other small woodland snakes in the Southeast, ringneck snakes spend most of their time underground or hidden under logs, rocks, leaf litter, or debris.
- Ring-necked snakes usually mate in the spring.
- Females attract males by secreting pheromones from their skin.
- Three to ten eggs are deposited in early summer and hatch in August or September.
- Raccoons, crows, hawk and even domesticated cats like ringneck snake.
- Ringneck snakes feed primarily on soft-bodied prey, such as slugs, sow bugs, or snails.
