Diadophis punctatus (non-venomous)

Ring-necked Snakes are so named because of a characteristic yellow ring around their neck. These small snakes, ranging between 10 and 15 inches, are gray or silvery on top with yellow, orange or even reddish bellies. The ones in our neighborhood and Florida also have a single row of dark spots along the belly. Like many small snakes, Ring-necked Snakes are infrequently seen, but this does not mean they are uncommon. Some scientists estimate that in certain areas there could be as many as 500 an acre!