Ring-necked Snake (Diadophis punctatus)

Ring-necked snakes are fairly uncommon to see at Jewel Cave National Monument, but are sometimes seen along the 3.5 mile canyons trail loop.

NPS photo

Ring-necked Snake
Diadophis punctatus

• The Ring-necked snake is a small, slender snake. Adults average around 14 inches in length.
• When under attack, these snakes will coil their tails showing the bright red underside while hiding their head under their body. This is thought to reduce predation by giving the impression they may be toxic to eat.
  
  

Identification
Individuals have a gray body with an orange or yellow ring around the neck bordered in black.

• When threatened, individuals will coil their tails showing the bright red underside while hiding their head under the body
  
  

Diet

• Prey consists mostly of small insects and earthworms.
• They will consume other small snakes when the opportunity presents itself.
  

Interactions with other animals

• Ring-necked snakes are rarely found outside of cover objects because they are prey to many animals including foxes, coyotes, weasels, and many birds of prey.
• Upon capture, individuals will release a foul-smelling musk to deter predators from eating them.