Pronunciation: [ɹˈɪŋ snˈe͡ɪk] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "ring snake" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /rɪŋ sneɪk/. The first syllable "ring" is pronounced with a short "i" sound as in "sit" and a hard "g" sound. The second syllable "snake" is pronounced with a long "a" sound, as in "face" and a soft "s" sound. A ring snake is a non-venomous snake of the genus Diadophis that has distinctive rings around its body.
Ring snake is a colloquial term used to refer to a type of non-venomous snake that possesses a distinctive pattern resembling rings or bands encircling its body. This snake belongs to the family Colubridae, which includes a wide variety of species found across different regions of the world. However, the term "ring snake" is most commonly associated with some subfamilies of colubrids, such as the genus Diadophis, specifically Diadophis punctatus, or the ringneck snake.
Ring snakes are generally slender and small in size, typically ranging from 10 to 18 inches long. They have a smooth and shiny appearance, with distinct coloration patterns that are often bright and contrasting. The rings or bands that give them their name can be different colors, including yellow, orange, red, or light gray, typically contrasting against a black or dark brown base color.
These snakes are primarily nocturnal, which means they are most active during the night. They are skilled burrowers and can often be found hiding under rocks, logs, or leaf litter during the daytime. Ring snakes feed primarily on invertebrates, such as earthworms, snails, slugs, and small insects. They are also known to occasionally consume small reptiles or amphibians.
Despite their relatively harmless nature, ring snakes have a unique defensive behavior. When threatened, they often display a defensive posture by curling their tails and exposing their brightly colored ventral scales, which can be mistaken for venomous warning displays. However, it is important to note that these snakes are non-venomous and are harmless to humans.
