Common Name: 
Ring-necked snake

Scientific Name: 
Diadophis punctatus

Identification: 8-16 inches. Slate gray above, yellow-orange below and on lower sides; belly has single or double row of black dots; neck has distinct yellow collar; scales smooth.

Habit: Ring-necked snakes hide under leaf litter, compost piles and rotted logs or under trash.

Distribution: Forested or wooded area throughout the the state except the southwest portion.

Comments: This snake may turn its tail upside-down in a tight coil to expose the bright orange underside when caught. They are non-venomous.