Corn Snake

Scientific Name: Pantherophis guttatus
Common Name: Corn Snake
Origin: Southeastern United States
Adult Size: 90–150 cm (3–5 feet)
Lifespan: 15–20 years
Temperament: Calm, hardy and easy to handle

Corn Snakes are one of the most popular pet snakes, especially for beginners. They are known for their calm temperament, manageable size and relatively simple care requirements.

Housing & Enclosure Requirements

Corn Snakes require a secure enclosure with a warm and cool side to allow proper temperature regulation.

Minimum enclosure size (adult):
120 × 60 × 60 cm (4 × 2 × 2 ft)

Key enclosure elements:

Basking area: around 30–32°C
Cool side: around 22–25°C
Multiple hides for security
Substrate suitable for burrowing
Branches or décor for enrichment

A secure lid is essential, as Corn Snakes are known for being skilled escape artists.

Diet & Nutrition

Corn Snakes are carnivorous and primarily feed on rodents.

In captivity they are typically fed frozen-thawed mice of an appropriate size.

General feeding guidelines:

Juveniles: every 5–7 days
Adults: every 7–14 days

Providing prey that is appropriately sized for the snake helps ensure safe and healthy feeding.

Temperament & Handling

Corn Snakes are widely known for their calm and gentle temperament, which makes them an excellent snake for new keepers. With regular, calm handling they usually become relaxed around people and are rarely aggressive.

Handling sessions should be kept gentle and snakes should not be handled immediately after feeding or while shedding.