Ring-necked snakes are capable of biting. While their bites are not considered dangerous to humans, they may still bite if they feel threatened or cornered. It is important to note that ring-necked snakes are generally docile and prefer to retreat or hide rather than engage in aggressive behavior.
I had a personal experience encountering a ring-necked snake while hiking in the woods. I accidentally stumbled upon it while moving some fallen leaves and debris. Startled by my presence, the snake quickly coiled up and displayed its bright yellow or orange belly, which is a defensive behavior known as “belly curling.” This is a warning sign to potential predators or threats.
In this situation, the snake did not attempt to bite me. It remained motionless and eventually slithered away to find a safer hiding spot. However, it is important to remember that every snake has its own temperament, and it is always recommended to maintain a respectful distance and avoid handling them unless you are a trained professional.
If a ring-necked snake does bite, it is usually a defensive response rather than an aggressive act. Their small, slender teeth are not designed for inflicting severe damage, and their bites are generally not painful. However, it is still advisable to wash the bite area with soap and water to prevent any potential infection.
It is worth mentioning that the venomous potential of ring-necked snakes is quite low. While they do possess a Duvernoy’s gland, which produces a mild venomous saliva, the venom is not potent enough to pose a significant threat to humans. The purpose of this mild venom is primarily to subdue and immobilize their prey, which consists mainly of small reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates.
To summarize, ring-necked snakes are capable of biting if they feel threatened, but their bites are generally harmless to humans. It is essential to respect their space and observe them from a safe distance in their natural habitat. If you do come across a ring-necked snake, enjoy observing its unique beauty and behavior while ensuring your own safety and the snake’s well-being.