Ringneck Snakes

Ring-necked snakes (Diadophis punctatus) are generally docile and non-aggressive, but they are wild animals and it’s best to avoid attempting to pet them. Snakes have delicate bodies and can be easily stressed, which can lead to defensive behavior or even biting.

The ring neck snake, also known as the ring-necked snake, is a small species of non-venomous snake found in various parts of North America and Canada. Here’s some information about the ringneck snake:

Appearance:

These snakes are typically small, measuring between 10 to 15 inches (25 to 38 cm) in length. They have slender bodies with smooth scales. The dorsal side (back) of their body is typically black or dark grey, while the ventral side (belly) is brightly colored, often yellow or orange, with a distinct ring around their neck, which gives them their common name.

Color Variations:

While the most common color pattern is a black body with a bright orange or yellow belly, there are some regional variations. For example, some ringneck snakes have a red or greyish-brown dorsal coloration.

Ringneck snake-is-curled-up-ball-lies-grass

Habitat:

Ringneck snakes inhabit a variety of environments, including forests, woodlands, grasslands, meadows, and sometimes even suburban areas. They are most commonly found in moist habitats near water sources like ponds, streams, and marshes.

Diet:

Ringneck snakes are nocturnal hunters that primarily feed on small prey such as earthworms, slugs, salamanders, small lizards, and occasionally small snakes. They are constrictors, which means they subdue their prey by wrapping their bodies around them.

Behaviour:

Ringneck snakes are secretive and often burrow or hide beneath objects like logs, rocks, or leaf litter. They are generally docile and rarely bite humans. If threatened, they may coil their bodies, raise their tails, and secrete a musky odor. However, their small size and non-venomous nature pose no significant danger to humans.

Reproduction:

Ringneck snakes reproduce by laying eggs. The female typically lays a clutch of 2 to 10 eggs in moist soil or decaying vegetation. The eggs hatch after several weeks, and the young snakes are independent from birth.

Conservation:

Ringneck snakes are not considered endangered or threatened. They are relatively common throughout their range and are not subject to significant conservation concerns.

Overall, the ringneck snake is a small and harmless snake species found in North America. Its distinctive coloration, especially the bright belly with a ring around its neck, makes it easily recognizable.

Caring Ringneck Snakes: 

If you are interested in caring for a ringneck snake as a pet, here are some guidelines to consider:

Snake Care

Housing:

A properly sized enclosure is essential. A glass terrarium or a plastic reptile cage with a secure lid is suitable. Provide a hiding spot, such as a small cave or a piece of bark, as well as some substrate like reptile carpet, paper towels, or cypress mulch.

Temperature and Lighting:

Maintain a temperature gradient in the enclosure with a warm side (around 80°F or 27°C) and a cooler side (around 70°F or 21°C). Use a heat mat or an under-tank heater to provide the necessary warmth. It’s also important to provide a light source that mimics a day-night cycle, with a 12-hour light and 12-hour dark cycle.

Ringneck Snakes Feeding:

Offer appropriately sized prey items for your snake. Ringneck snakes primarily eat invertebrates like earthworms, slugs, and small insects. You may also feed them small lizards or newborn pinky mice. Make sure to provide a shallow dish of clean water for drinking and soaking.

Handling:

Ringneck snakes are generally docile, but they can be timid and may prefer to hide. Avoid handling them excessively or forcefully. When handling, support the snake’s body and be gentle to minimize stress.

Veterinary Care:

Find a reptile-experienced veterinarian in your area and schedule regular check-ups for your snake. Routine examinations can help detect and prevent potential health issues.

Angry Ringneck Snakes:

Ringneck snakes, like most reptiles, do not exhibit emotions such as anger or other complex emotions that are typically associated with humans. They have more basic instinctual behaviors and responses related to survival, defense, and reproduction.

Ringneck Snake

When ringneck snakes feel threatened or stressed, their natural response is to try to escape or defend themselves. They may exhibit defensive behaviors such as coiling their bodies, raising their tails, and sometimes releasing a musky odor. These defensive behaviors are not indicative of anger but rather instinctual reactions to perceived threats.

It’s important to note that ringneck snakes are generally docile and non-aggressive towards humans. They prefer to avoid confrontation and will typically try to hide or flee when they feel threatened rather than displaying aggressive behaviour. If you encounter a ringneck snake, it’s best to observe it from a distance and avoid any actions that could cause it stress or harm.

Remember, snakes are not capable of experiencing emotions in the same way humans do, so terms like “angry” are not applicable to their behavior.