A Guide to the Amphibians
and Reptiles of California

Click on a picture for a larger view

Ring-necked Snakes found in California

Not Dangerous (Non-poisonous) Ring-necked Snakes do not have venom that is dangerous to most humans.
This small snake is found in moist habitats throughout the state. It is mostly absent from deserts and very dry habitats. It is typically found hiding underneath surface objects, but occasionally it is seen crossing a trail or road, or even basking in the morning or evening. Generally, this snake is not found during the dry summer months. Seven Subspecies are currently found in California. Each is similar in appearance, with a ring around the neck, separating a darkhead from a gray to greenish body, with a yellow or orange belly. Check the range map below to determine which subspecies occurs in your area.

Pacific Ring-necked Snake Diadophis punctatus amabilis	Northwestern Ring-necked Snake Diadophis punctatus occidentalis	Regal Ring-necked Snake Diadophis punctatus regalis

Monterey Ring-necked Snake Diadophis punctatus vandenburghii	San Diego Ring-necked Snake Diadophis punctatus similis	San Bernardino Ring-necked Snake Diadophis punctatus modestus

	Coral-bellied Ring-necked Snake Diadophis punctatus pulchellus

Range Red: Diadophis punctatus amabilis - Pacific Ring-necked Snake Light Blue: Diadophis punctatus modestus - San Bernardino Ring-necked Snake Orange: Diadophis punctatus. occidentalis - Northwestern Ring-necked Snake Purple: Diadophis punctatus pulchellus- Coral-bellied Ring-necked Snake Black: Diadophis punctatus regalis - Regal Ring-necked Snake Blue: Diadophis punctatus similis - San Diego Ring-necked Snake Yellow: Diadophis punctatus vandenburghi - Monterey Ring-necked Snake Gray: General area of intergradation

Return to the Top