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Ring-necked Snake
Scientific Name: Diadophis punctatus
Terrestrial
Native
Nonvenomous
A small snake- 8 to 16 inches long. Slate gray above, yellow-orange below with an irregular series of dark spots down the midventer. Neck has a distinct yellow collar that is not split on the nape. Scales are smooth and in 15 rows.
Range and Habitat
Found in hardwood or mixed pine-hardwood forests of Louisiana. Avoid coastal regions and uncommon in the Mississippi River floodplain.
Behavior
Tend to stay concealed under leaf litter and objects in wooded or forested areas. When approached they often curl their lips upward in a threatening "sneer" though they rarely ever strike or bite. Primarily feed on slugs. Give birth to 6 to 15 young.
Population Status
Populations are considered stable within the state.