Fauna
Reptile

Northern Ring-necked Snake

Diadophis punctatus edwardsii

Also known as Ringneck Snake

Northern ringneck snakes are small, secretive reptiles easily recognized by a vivid yellow or orange neck collar contrasting with slate grey upperparts. When threatened, they curl their bright yellow-orange tail undersides upward to startle potential predators. They spend most of their lives concealed beneath damp forest logs, rocks, and leaf litter, hunting soft-bodied prey at night.

SecretiveNocturnalHarmless
Northern Ring-necked Snake reference
(c) Justin, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyEarthworms, Red-backed salamanders, Slugs
Predators
  • Hawks
  • Larger snakes
  • Raccoons
ThreatsDeforestation, habitat fragmentation, pesticide exposure
HabitatsMoist deciduous forests, woodland edges, rocky hillsides
Life span10–20 years
Classification
  1. FamilyColubridae
  2. SpeciesDiadophis punctatus edwardsii
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
  • Look Under Debris: Search beneath rotting logs and flat stones in damp woods, replacing cover carefully.
  • Observe Quietly: Watch their unique tail-coiling defense display without forcing contact.
  • Minimize Handling: Avoid picking them up to prevent stress and the release of foul musk.
Related species
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