Taxonomy:
Common Names by Region:
Description: Ring-Necked Snakes are small, slender reptiles typically measuring 10-15 inches in length, though some individuals may reach up to 18 inches. They are easily identifiable by their distinctive coloration: a dark, often black or gray dorsal side contrasted by a bright yellow, orange, or red ring around their neck. The ventral side is brightly colored, often with an orange or yellow hue marked by a series of black spots. Their scales are smooth, contributing to their sleek appearance.
Known Range: The range of the Ring-Necked Snake extends across much of the United States, southern Canada, and into northern Mexico. They are found from the East Coast to the West Coast of the United States, with notable populations in the Midwest, Southeast, and along the Pacific Coast. Their habitats include forests, grasslands, and rocky hillsides, often favoring moist environments near streams or rivers.
Diet: Ring-Necked Snakes primarily feed on small amphibians, such as salamanders and frogs, as well as earthworms and small invertebrates like slugs and insects. They are also known to consume small reptiles and occasionally young rodents. Their hunting method typically involves subduing prey with a mild venom delivered through enlarged rear teeth, though the venom is harmless to humans.
Breeding: Breeding occurs in the spring following emergence from hibernation. Females lay eggs in early summer, typically in June or July. Clutch sizes range from 2 to 10 eggs, which are deposited in moist, protected environments such as under logs or within rotting vegetation. The eggs incubate for about 6 to 8 weeks before hatching in late summer to early fall.
Lifecycle: The lifecycle of the Ring-Necked Snake begins with the hatching of young in late summer or early fall. Juveniles closely resemble adults but are smaller in size. They grow steadily, reaching sexual maturity in about 2 to 3 years. Adults may live for several years, though exact lifespan data in the wild is limited. They are nocturnal or crepuscular, often hiding under rocks, logs, or leaf litter during the day to avoid predators. Hibernation occurs during the colder months, with snakes seeking refuge in burrows or other subterranean habitats to escape freezing temperatures.