Diadophis punctatus similis (Blanchard)
the San Diego Ringneck Snake
Current Name
Original Name
Physical Description Habitat Natural History Conservation
Diadophis punctatus similis Blanchard, 1923.
Diadophis amabilis similis Blanchard, 1923. Holotype-locality: University of Michigan Museum of Zoology
Liner (1994) present usage.
Size: Adults, 11-20 inches
Identifying Attributes: Dorsal surface is generally light-olive in color, with a deep olive head, with dorsal scales in 15 rows throughout, dropping to 13 towards the posterior. Neck ring is orange with slight black border. The ventral surface is pale orange, becoming deeper towards the posterior, and scarlet at the tail.
Range: Baja California to southwest San Bernardino.
Macro: In forests, inland valleys, foothills and mountains.
Micro: Under logs, boulders, loose bark , damp leaves, and other moist areas.
Feeding: Preys on small vertebrates like salamanders, tree frogs, and lizards as well as insects, worms, and other small invertebrates.
Reproduction: Oviparous. Possible sexual dimorphism- adult females may be generally larger than adult males.
Period of Activity: Most active in April and May, but may be found throughout the year.
Diadophis punctatus similis has been nominated for threatened species status.