The Corn Snake can be a great choice for a beginning snake owner. Everything you need to know about them is contained in this article.

Corn Snake - Facts

1. Description:

   Corn snakes are colorful reptiles found mainly in the southeastern United States. They reach up to 4 feet in length and live an average of 15 years in captivity.

2. Varieties:

   Corn snakes, scientifically named Pantherophis guttata, are a species of the Rat Snake, also known as the Great Plains Rat Snake.

3. History:

   Corn snakes have been bred in captivity for many years and are one of the most popular snakes as a pet.

4. Physical Traits:

   Corn snakes come in many beautiful colors due to selective breeding and are usually less than five feet in length.

5. Other Defining Characteristics:

   Corn snakes are named for the Indian Corn pattern on the belly.

6. Habitat:

   Corn snakes live in wooded areas and are often found in abandoned buildings and trash piles.

Corn Snake - Concerns

1. Benefits:

   Corn snakes are usually very gentle, fairly easy to care for, and do not grow very large.

2. Liabilities:

   You must provide mice as food for this snake.

3. Health Issues:

   Corn snakes are usually healthy and free of disease, but they may suffer from mites, shedding problems, and regurgitation problems if not fed properly.

4. Specific Care Needs:

   A corn snake needs clean water, a place to hide, something to climb on, and a source of heat that keeps the temperature between 70-85 degrees F.

5. Reaction to Children and other Pets:

   Corn snakes can be rather docile, but children should always be supervised. Other household pets should not be allowed access to the snake.

6. Special Household Needs:

   Corn snakes do not need any special lighting. When full-grown, they should be fed one mouse or rat every 7-10 days.

Corn Snake - How to Choose

1. What to Look for:

   You should look for a captive-bred snake that has clear eyes, no signs of parasites, healthy skin, and is alert.

2. Supplies:

   A corn snake should have a "hide box" that is just big enough for the snake to curl up in. A branch or other item to climb on should also be provided.

3. Expense:

   A corn snake is one of the most inexpensive snakes available. The snake alone can be purchased in the $20 range. However, the main expenses in owning a corn snake will come when providing mice and rats as food.