Ringneck snakes, often found in gardens and wooded areas, are small, secretive reptiles. Despite common misconceptions, these snakes are largely harmless to people.
Are Ringneck Snakes Dangerous to Humans?
Ringneck snakes are not dangerous to humans. While they possess a mild venom, it is specifically adapted for subduing their small prey and poses no threat to people. The term “poisonous” is often mistakenly used for snakes; a poisonous animal is harmful if ingested or absorbed, whereas a venomous animal injects toxins, typically through a bite. Ringneck snakes are considered mildly venomous, not poisonous.
These snakes are rear-fanged. Their small mouth makes it difficult for them to effectively bite and inject venom into human skin. Even if a bite occurs, symptoms are typically limited to minor irritation, if any. Ringneck snakes are generally docile and non-aggressive, preferring to flee or use defensive displays, such as coiling their tail to expose their brightly colored underside, instead of biting.
Identifying a Ringneck Snake
Ringneck snakes are typically small and slender, usually measuring between 10 to 15 inches as adults, though some can reach up to 20 inches. Their dorsal coloration ranges from slate gray to bluish-black or olive. A distinguishing feature is the bright yellow, orange, or red ring around their neck.
The underside of a ringneck snake is typically a vibrant yellow, orange, or red. This bright coloration often features crescent-shaped black spots along the margins or down the center. Their scales are smooth. While the neck ring can sometimes be incomplete or less pronounced in certain subspecies, the combination of their size, dorsal color, and belly pattern makes them fairly recognizable.
Encountering a Ringneck Snake
Ringneck snakes are secretive and primarily nocturnal, often hidden under rocks, logs, leaf litter, or other debris during the day. If you encounter a ringneck snake, observe it from a distance and let it move on. Do not attempt to handle or harass the snake.
These snakes play a beneficial role in the ecosystem by feeding on small invertebrates such as earthworms, slugs, and salamanders, as well as small lizards and other snakes. Their presence often indicates a healthy local environment.
If a ringneck snake is found in an undesirable location, like indoors, it can typically be gently guided outdoors with a broom into a container and released in a nearby natural area with suitable cover.