What is a black snake with yellow band?

A black snake with a yellow or red ring around its neck is the Northern Ringneck Snake. It is found in forests, grassy areas and watery areas such as streams.

The Northern Ringneck snake is a small sized snake, only growing up to two feet long. It can have either a red or yellow colored ring around its neck with a brightly colored belly to match. The head is large and flat.

The Northern Ringneck snake tends to hide under logs, rocks, leaf piles or other matted plants. It is nocturnal, being most active at night. Several may be found hiding together