Fauna
Reptile · GBIF taxon 6161397

Pacific Ring-necked Snake

Diadophis punctatus amabilis

Also known as California Ringneck Snake, Western Ringneck Snake

Pacific ringneck snakes are small, secretive reptiles characterized by a dark slate upper surface contrasting sharply with a vibrant yellow to coral-red belly. When confronted by predators, they curl their tail tip into a bright corkscrew to expose warning colors while secreting a musky fluid. They spend most of their lives hidden beneath logs, stones, and leaf litter in moist coastal woods and shaded foothill canyons.

SecretiveHarmlessReptile
Pacific Ring-necked Snake reference
Licensed reference(c) Brooke J., some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & prey
  • Earthworms
  • Slugs
  • Small salamanders
Predators
  • Hawks
  • Owls
  • Larger snakes
ThreatsHabitat fragmentation, urban development, severe wildfire
HabitatsOak woodlands, chaparral, moist canyon bottoms, damp forest edges
Life span6–10 years in the wild
Classification
  1. FamilyColubridae
  2. SpeciesDiadophis punctatus amabilis
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 Cover: Flip fallen logs and damp leaf litter during spring mornings.
  • Observe Quietly: Watch without handling to avoid triggering its defensive tail display.
  • Minimize Handling: Avoid touching as cornered snakes easily release a foul musk.
Related species
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