Identification- 10-22" (25.5-56 cm) This slender woodland snake is one of our most attractive. The back and sides are slate gray, occasionally black or brownish and the venter is bright yellow. A single line of black spots on the belly may or may not be present. The snake gets its name from a narrow yellow band which encircles the neck. The top of the head is darker than the dorsal surface.
    Similar Species- Juvenile Northern Brown Snakes may have fused neck spots, but the venter is tan and the scales are keeled (a magnifier may be needed to see them).

Range- Ringneck Snakes are found in all parts of our range, provided that proper habitat exists.
 

Habitat- Woodlands and disturbed edges of woodlands. Ringneck Snakes are secretive, but can be found in numbers by overturning logs or stones. They are most common in disturbed woodlands. The presence of humans has been beneficial for this species.

Reproduction- Ringneck Snakes mate both spring and fall. Two to six eggs are laid in June and July. Several females may use the same nest site. Decaying logs and flat rocks are favored nest sites. Eggs hatch approximately eight weeks after deposition. Juveniles measure 4-6" (10-15 cm) and mature in two to three years.

General Characteristics-
These are one of the most common of our snakes, but are seldom seen without a concerted search effort because of their secretive tendencies. When captured they emit a foul-smelling musk meant to deter predators, but they seldom bite. Ringneck Snakes feed on salamanders, earthworms, slugs, and insects.  Although they are hard pressed to bite, their saliva is reported to be mildly venomous, causing localized swelling and itching in humans.  I have been bitten by a Ringneck Snake on one occasion and did not feel any venomous effects.