About Joseph Glenn Expertise I can answer most questions concerning snakes of the Southeastern United States. My largest area of interest and expertise is in the morphology(form and physical structure), behavior, home range, and life cycles of species native to the Carolinas. I can also provide some information about what to do when you encounter a snake on your property. I do not, however, know much about husbandry or veterinary care, but I am always willing to help you find the answers you need.
Experience I am a biology student, naturalist, and an amateur herpetologist who has made many field observations of the snakes of the Carolinas. I conduct my own "snake hunts" every spring and summer in order to learn as much as possible about native species, as well as to challenge my own abilities to locate and identify the animals I love the most. I have read many books, journals, and articles about snakes and feel that this has given me a fairly broad knowledge of the world of snakes. I have also volunteered in the Herpetology Lab at the Natural Science Center of Greensboro, North Carolina, working as a hands-on reptile educator and gaining even more knowledge every time I worked.
Organizations North Carolina Herpetological Society
American Society of Icthyologists and Herpetologists
Question I live in north central Alabama. I found a baby snake(approx.two and one half inches long)with a white band circling the body just behind the head.I have never seen these markings before. Just wanted to know if someone could I.D. this species. Also, isn't it late in the year for snakes to hatch out?
Answer Gary,
The snake you saw was probably a northern ringneck snake (Diadophis punctatus edwardsi). This is a smaller, nonvenomous snake species which is found in Northern Alabama. I am actually not too surprised to hear that you found one this time of year (especially with the unusually warm weather here in the south). They may hatch at various times during the year, and unseasonally warm weather may have caused them to hatch this late in the year. Thanks for your question. Let me know if you would like more info on the ringneck snake or snakes in general.
