Corn Snake Care

Written By Christopher Enders

Corn Snake

(Pantherophis guttatus)

Corn snakes are one of the most popular pet snakes due to their manageable size, gentle temperament, and ease of care. Native to the southeastern United States, they inhabit fields, forests, barns, and abandoned buildings where they help control rodent populations. Adults typically reach 3–5 feet in length, making them a medium-sized snake that is easy to handle compared to larger constrictors. Corn snakes are also known for their wide variety of beautiful color and pattern morphs available in the pet trade.

Lifespan:

Typically 15-20 years in captivity

Sexing:

Corn snakes are not sexually dimorphic. Sexing is usually done by probing or popping and should only be performed by an experienced keeper or veterinarian.

Enclosure:

  • Minimum for adults: a minimum 36”x18”x18” enclosure due to their smaller size.

  • Escape-proof lid is essential—Corn snakes are excellent at finding gaps

Substrate:

  • Aspen shavings, cypress mulch, or coconut husk bedding work well. Avoid cedar or pine shavings, as they are toxic to reptiles. Spot-clean regularly and perform a full substrate change every 4–6 weeks.

Lighting & Temperature:

  • Basking Spot: 88-90°F.

  • Ambient Temperature: 75-82°F

  • Cool Side: 72=75°F.

  • UVB Lighting: No special UVB required, but a low-level UVB bulb (5.0) may provide additional benefits.

Humidity:

Maintain 40-60% humidity. Increase slightly during shedding with light misting or a humid hide.

Always monitor humidity levels with a digital hygrometer.

Food:

Feed frozen thawed rodents of the appropriate size (About the same width as the widest part of the snake)

  • Juveniles: Feed every 5-7 days

  • Adults: Feed every 10-14 days

Water:

Provide fresh water daily in a shallow dish. Use a heavy dish to avoid tipping, and replace water daily or when dirty.

Supplementation:

  • No additional vitamins and minerals are needed when feeding whole prey items.

Corn snakes are hardy, beautifully patterned, and easy to care for, making them one of the best beginner-friendly snakes. Their calm nature and wide range of morphs make them a favorite among both new and experienced reptile keepers.

Christopher Enders
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