This information is strictly what we have found works best for us and variation between keepers should be expected.
Corn snakes are an excellent choice for beginner reptile enthusiasts. These snakes are small, easy to handle, hardy, and come in a variety of beautiful colors and patterns. Known for their curious and calm nature, corn snakes are rarely aggressive, making them a rewarding species to keep.
Natural Habitat
Corn snakes are native to the Southeastern and Central United States. They are constrictors, primarily feeding on small rodents and birds. These snakes are commonly found in fields, barns, the edges of forests, and abandoned buildings. The name "corn snake" may come from their habit of inhabiting cornfields or from the checkered belly pattern resembling kernels of corn.
Temperature & Heating
Hot Spot: 82-85°F (Do not exceed 90°F)
Cool Side: Room temperature (68-72°F)
Corn snakes need a warm side and a cool side in their enclosure to regulate their body temperature. A reptile-specific heat mat is recommended since corn snakes prefer to burrow in their bedding. Always connect your heat source to a thermostat to prevent overheating, which can be dangerous for both your snake and your home.
Lighting
Corn snakes do not require special lighting, but providing a day-night cycle is beneficial for their activity and digestion. While UVB lighting isn't necessary, it can enhance the color of your snake.
Housing & Enclosure
Corn snakes are escape artists, especially as hatchlings. Ensure their enclosure is escape-proof, with no gaps large enough for the snake to squeeze through. A 20-gallon long tank is suitable for babies, and a 40-gallon breeder tank is ideal for adults.
Setup Tips:
Bedding: Aspen, Eco Earth, or Repti-Bark. Avoid overly humid environments unless using moss for shedding aids.
Hides: Provide at least one hide on the warm side and one on the cool side of the enclosure.
Water Bowl: Place on the cool side or center of the enclosure to help with humidity.
Safety Note: Ensure proper airflow under the heat mat to avoid overheating the surface beneath the enclosure. Always use a thermostat with your heat sources.
Zoo Med Corn Snake Starter Kit
This 20 Gallon Long Habitat kit includes everything you need to get started with your new Corn Snake friend!
Feeding
Feed your corn snake frozen/thawed mice, which is safer than live feeding. Begin feeding hatchlings small pinky mice after their first shed, typically about a week after hatching.
Feeding Tips:
Feed hatchlings and yearlings once a week.
Feed adults once every two weeks.
Move up a meal size when the snake no longer shows a visible lump 24 hours after eating.
Avoid handling your snake for a few days after feeding to prevent stress or regurgitation.
Handling
Handling a baby corn snake can be tricky due to their small size and speed. Allow the snake to glide through your fingers, supporting it gently. Over time, your snake will become accustomed to your presence and handling.
Handling Tips:
Use a snake hook to remove the snake from its enclosure initially.
Avoid touching or pinching the head and tail, as this can make them defensive.
Practice makes perfect—handle your snake calmly and confidently.
Determining Gender in Corn Snakes
Determining the gender of a corn snake can be challenging for the untrained eye, but there are a few methods that can help:
Visual Differences
Male and female corn snakes generally look similar, but adult males tend to have slightly longer tails that taper gradually, while females usually have shorter, more abruptly tapering tails. However, this difference can be subtle and may not be the most reliable method for beginners.
Probing Method
The most accurate way to determine a corn snake's gender is through a technique called probing, which should only be performed by an experienced herpetologist or veterinarian. This involves gently inserting a specialized probe into the vent (cloaca) of the snake. In males, the probe will go deeper (5-8 scales), while in females, it will go only a few scales deep (2-3 scales).
Popping Method
Another technique, often used on hatchlings, is "popping," which involves gently applying pressure near the tail base to evert the hemipenes if the snake is male. This method is also best performed by an experienced handler to avoid injury.
If you're unsure or uncomfortable with these methods, it's always a good idea to consult with a professional who can accurately determine the gender of your corn snake.