Corn Snake Care Sheet

Origin:

Corn snakes (Pantherophis guttatus) are native to the southeastern United States. They inhabit forests, grasslands, and agricultural fields, often near rodent populations.

Description:

Corn snakes are medium-sized, non-venomous snakes with slender bodies and distinctive patterns of red, orange, brown, and black. Adults typically reach 3–5 feet in length and weigh 1–2 pounds. Lifespan in captivity can reach 15–20 years.

Temperament:

Corn snakes are generally calm and easy to handle, making them excellent beginner snakes. They are active and curious, but not aggressive.

Feeding:

• Diet: Appropriately sized rodents (mice or rats), usually pre-killed or frozen/thawed.
• Feeding frequency: Juveniles every 5–7 days; adults every 7–14 days.
• Water: Fresh water provided daily in a shallow dish for drinking and soaking.
• Notes: Avoid handling for 24–48 hours after feeding to prevent regurgitation.

Housing:

• Enclosure: Glass or PVC terrarium with secure lid.
• Size: Minimum 20–40 gallons for adults; larger preferred for activity.
• Substrate: Aspen shavings, newspaper, or reptile carpet; avoid cedar and pine.
• Temperature: Basking 85–88°F, ambient 75–80°F; nighttime 70–75°F.
• Humidity: 40–60%; provide a moist hide during shedding.
• Hides: At least two hiding spots on warm and cool sides of the enclosure.

Handling:

Handle gently, supporting the snake’s entire body. Corn snakes are tolerant of handling but may become defensive if stressed.

Health:

Common health issues include:

• Respiratory infections from poor ventilation or low temperatures
• Parasites (mites or internal worms)
• Shedding problems due to low humidity or inadequate hides
• Obesity from overfeeding or improper prey size

Regular veterinary checkups with a reptile specialist are recommended. Monitor for lethargy, refusal to eat, abnormal shedding, or wheezing.

Grooming:

Corn snakes shed their skin regularly. Provide a moist hide and maintain proper humidity to assist shedding. Clean the enclosure regularly to prevent scale infections.

Fun Facts:

• Corn snakes are excellent climbers and may explore vertical spaces in their enclosure.
• They are named for their frequent presence in cornfields and their checkered belly pattern.
• Corn snakes are popular pets due to their calm temperament and variety of color morphs.
• They are constrictors, subduing prey by wrapping their bodies around it rather than using venom.

Compliments of:
S & S Exotic Animals, Inc.
1711 Connorvale Rd., Houston, TX 77039
(281) 590-0426
www.sandsexoticanimals.com