NON-VENOMOUS 

Other common names

Ringneck Snake, Southern Ring-necked Snake, Key Ring-necked Snake

Basic description

Most adult Ring-necked Snakes are about 8-14 inches (21-36 cm) in total length. Adults are small and slender with a black or slate gray body and a yellowish ring across the neck, which may be incomplete or missing. The belly and underside of the tail are bright yellow, orange, or red. Juvenile coloration is similar to that described for adults.

Range in Florida

Ring-necked Snakes are found throughout mainland Florida in every county. They also occur on the Florida Keys.

Assessment of risk to people and pets

Non-venomous. Ring-necked Snakes are not dangerous to people or pets.

Comparison with other species

Florida Brownsnake (Storeria victa) Non-venomous

two images side by side - Image 1: Florida Brownsnake. small brown snake with tan under neck. Image 2: Ring-necked snake black snake coiled to show orange belly.
Florida Brownsnake. Photo courtesy of Luke Smith.
Ring-necked Snake showing belly pattern. Photo courtesy of Luke Smith.

Rough Earthsnake (Haldea striatula) Non-venomous

two images side by side - Image 1: Rough Earthsnake. brown snake coiled on a log. Image 2: Ring-necked snake black snake coiled to show orange belly.
Rough Earthsnake. Photo courtesy J.D. Wilson
Ring-necked Snake showing belly pattern. Photo courtesy of Luke Smith.

Smooth Earthsnake (Virginia valeriae) Non-venomous

two images side by side - Image 1: Smooth Earthsnake. gray snake with light lines. Image 2: Ring-necked snake black snake coiled to show orange belly.
Smooth Earthsnake. Photo courtesy of cassiethegardener/iNaturalist
Ring-necked Snake showing belly pattern. Photo courtesy of Luke Smith.

Share your observations

You can help scientists better understand the biology and distribution of this species by sharing your observations. Send photos or videos of interesting observations, along with associated information, by emailing the herpetology staff at the Florida Museum for documentation in the Museum’s Herpetology Master Database. You can also post your observations on iNaturalist.

Additional helpful information

Do you have snakes around your house? Learn how to safely co-exist with snakes.

Still have questions about snakes or identifications? Feel free to email the herpetology staff at the Florida Museum with your questions or feedback on this profile.

Banner photo courtesy of Luke Smith. Please credit any photographers on the page and see our copyright policy.