I saw a small black snake with an orange/yellow ring around the base of its head. What species of snake is it?
The snake you encountered is a northern ringneck snake (Diadophis punctatus). This nonvenomous snake can be found throughout Pennsylvania. Measuring 10-24 inches in length, the northern ringneck can be gray to black in color with a yellow or orange ring around its neck. The belly color will match that of the neck. This snake can be found resting under logs, stones and other debris. Ringneck snakes are one of the most common snakes to get into homes and basements. They are nonvenomous and harmless.
