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
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.Varieties:
Corn snakes, scientifically named Pantherophis guttata, are a species of the Rat Snake, also known as the Great Plains Rat Snake.History:
Corn snakes have been bred in captivity for many years and are one of the most popular snakes as a pet.Physical Traits:
Corn snakes come in many beautiful colors due to selective breeding and are usually less than five feet in length.Other Defining Characteristics: Corn snakes are named for the Indian Corn pattern on the belly.
Habitat:
Corn snakes live in wooded areas and are often found in abandoned buildings and trash piles.
Corn Snake - Concerns
Benefits:
Corn snakes are usually very gentle, fairly easy to care for, and do not grow very large.Liabilities:
You must provide mice as food for this snake.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.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.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.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
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.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.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.