The Ringneck Snake Diet

The ringneck snake, or Diadophis punctatus, is a species of snake named for the yellow/gold ring-like marking around its neck. The ringneck snake is usually black, brown, or gray in color. Ringneck snakes are usually found in moist climates, especially woodlands. They are native to central and eastern North America. There are several subspecies of ringneck snake and their diet varies depending on location.

  1. Feeding Habits

    • Ringneck snakes are generally nocturnal, preferring to feed during the nighttime hours. The ringneck snake utilizes constriction to paralyze its prey before eating it. Ringneck snakes have a small amount of venom in their saliva that aids in paralyzing their prey.

    Salamanders

    • Many subspecies of ringneck snake feed on salamanders, but the eastern ringneck snake’s diet is made up almost exclusively of the redback salamander. The redback salamander lives in the same moist woodland climate as the eastern ringneck snake and therefore is usually an abundant food source for the snake.

    Small Animals

    • In addition to salamanders, Ringneck snakes are also known to feed on small animals such as lizards, frogs, and fish. Ringneck snakes also occasionally eat baby rodents.

    Insects

    • Ringneck snakes do not always feed on larger prey. When prey is scarce, ringneck snakes hunt insects and small invertebrates such as earthworms and slugs.

    Other Snakes

    • Many types of ringneck snakes are known to feed on other, smaller species of snakes such as members of the genus Storeria. The ringneck snake is often more powerful than these snakes and can use its body to constrict the other snake.