The southern ringneck snake, or Diadophis punctatus, is found throughout Florida's mainland and the Keys. This snake is the more common of Florida's two ringneck species. As adults, southern ringneck snakes grow up to 15 inches. Florida's woodland areas are the preferred habitat for southern ringneck snakes; however, they can also be found in the state's coastal plains and aquatic environments. The dorsal region of these snakes is gray, while the belly is a light orange color. A southern ringneck snake's diet includes small mammals, amphibians and small birds; two important dietary items in particular are salamanders and earthworms.
Florida's Key ringneck snake, or Diaphodis punctatus acricus, is endemic to the Lower Florida Keys. These snakes dwell on the islands of Little Torch Key, Middle Torch Key and Big Pine Key. Key ringneck snakes is the smaller of Florida's two ringneck species; this snake reaches lengths of 6 inches when it matures. Gray is the primary color of the key ringneck snake's dorsal region, while the snake's belly is bright red. Key ringneck snakes live in the Key's pine forests and the island's limestone outcroppings. These snakes dine on invertebrates and small amphibians.
The southern ringneck snake has an abundant population and is not considered threatened or endangered. However, the State of Florida considers the Key ringneck snake's status as threatened. This is largely due to the snake's limited range. As a result, Key ringneck snakes are protected by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The FFWCC mandates these snakes cannot be killed or taken into captivity as a pet. These snakes do not receive federal protection, however.
Both the southern and Key ringneck snakes are non-venomous. To subdue their prey, ringneck snakes rely on constriction to suffocate their intended victims. For protection, ringneck snakes will coil into a ball and reveal their brightly-colored bellies. Although it is rare, ringneck snakes have been known to bite humans in defense. Rather than bite, though, ringneck snakes release a musky odor to defend themselves if they are picked up by humans or threatened by predators. Both of Florida's ringneck snakes do not come out into the open often, so it is rare for humans to ever see one in the wild.