Caring for your new Corn Snake

albino cornsnake
Cornsnake wound up in a cute little coil
Basic Information

  • Common Name: Corn Snake

  • Scientific Name: Pantherophis guttatus

  • Lifespan: 15-20 years in captivity with proper care

  • Size: 3-5 feet in length as adults

  • Temperament: Docile and easy to handle

Fun Facts

  • Name Origin: Corn snakes get their name from the pattern on their bellies, which resembles maize kernels.

  • Escape Artists: Like kingsnakes, corn snakes are adept at finding and squeezing through small gaps. Ensure your enclosure is secure.

  • Color Morphs: Corn snakes come in an array of color morphs, including albino, anerythristic, and snow variations.

  • Native Range: These snakes are native to the southeastern United States, where they inhabit forests, fields, and farms.

  • Great for Beginners: Their docile nature and manageable size make them one of the best pet snakes for first-time owners.

Enclosure

    • Tank Size:

      • Hatchlings: 20-gallon long tank.

      • Juveniles: 40-gallon breeder tank.

      • Adults: Minimum 120-gallon enclosure to provide ample space for natural behaviors.

    • Material: Front-opening glass or PVC enclosures with secure lids to prevent escapes.

    Substrate

    • Options: A soil-clay-sand mixture; avoid aspen shavings as they do not support burrowing.

    • Depth: At least 6 inches to allow for proper burrowing.

    • Spot Cleaning: Remove waste promptly and change substrate entirely every 4-6 weeks.

    Enrichment

    • Hides: Provide at least three hides: one on the warm side, one on the cool side, and a humid hide for shedding support.

    • Climbing Structures: Include branches, vines, and sturdy decor.

    • Enrichment Items: Artificial plants, tunnels, and textured surfaces.

Heating and Lighting

Temperature

  • Warm Side: 85°F (29°C)

  • Cool Side: 75°F (24°C)

  • Nighttime: 70°F (21°C)

  • Monitoring: Use digital thermometers and a thermostat to maintain consistent temperatures.

UVB Lighting

  • Corn snakes do not require UVB lighting, but providing a low-intensity UVB bulb can enhance overall health and support natural behavior.

  • Use a 2-5% UVB bulb on a 12-hour day/night cycle.

UVB Lighting 101

Diet and Feeding

Feeding Schedule

  • Hatchlings: Feed every 5-7 days.

  • Juveniles: Feed every 7-10 days.

  • Sub-adults: Feed every 10-14 days.

  • Adults: Feed once a month.

Prey

  • Type: Offer appropriately sized frozen-thawed rodents (mice or rats).

  • Size: Prey should be about the same width as the snake’s widest part.

  • Thawing: Ensure prey is fully thawed and warmed to room temperature before feeding.

Water

  • Provide a shallow water dish large enough for soaking. Refresh water daily and clean the dish regularly.

Feeding Tips
Handling and Temperment

  • Handle your corn snake 1-2 times per week to maintain tameness and reduce stress.

  • Avoid handling for 72 hours after feeding to prevent regurgitation.

  • Always approach calmly and support the snake’s entire body during handling.

Health and Wellness

Common Issues

  • Shedding Problems: Provide a humid hide or mist the enclosure lightly if shedding issues occur.

  • Parasites: Regularly check for mites or other external parasites.

  • Respiratory Infections: Symptoms include wheezing, open-mouth breathing, or nasal discharge; adjust temperatures and consult a vet if needed.

Signs of a Healthy Snake

  • Smooth, even shedding

  • Clear eyes and nostrils

  • Active and curious behavior

  • Regular feeding and defecation cycles

Cleaning and Maintenance

  • Daily: Spot clean for waste and uneaten prey.

  • Weekly: Check and clean hides, water dishes, and decor as needed.

  • Monthly: Perform a deep clean using reptile-safe disinfectants.

Additional Tips

  • Avoid housing multiple corn snakes together; they are solitary and thrive best alone.

  • Monitor your snake’s weight and growth to ensure proper feeding.

Caring for your new corn snake

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