Corn Snake

Corn snakes (Pantherophis guttatus) are slender, small to medium sized snakes native to the south-eastern and central United States. Fully grown, they range between 3.5ft and 5.5ft in total length, with some individuals reaching 6ft, although this is uncommon. In captivity this species typically lives to be 20 years old or more. They are considered incredibly docile and their bright colors make them a favorite amongst reptile keepers — second only to the Ball Python in popularity as a pet snake.

Corn snakes are incredibly easy to handle and with regular handling become quite accustomed to it. Smaller individuals are faster and more fragile than larger ones, so take care when handling young corn snakes. Their bright color morphs and active, curious nature make them a joy to observe and interact with.

Rinse and refill the water dish at least once daily. Monitor temperature and humidity. Spot-clean the enclosure as needed. Feed on schedule (see diet section). Do not handle within 24 hours of feeding.

Corn snakes eat a diet of primarily rodents — live, pre-killed, or thawed frozen. The feeder should be no thicker/wider than the thickest part of the snake. Feeding chart: • Hatchling (0–6 months): 1 Pinky Mouse every 5 days • Juvenile (6–12 months): 1 Fuzzy or Hopper Mouse once a week • Sub-Adult (12–24 months): 1 Hopper or Adult Mouse once a week • Adult (2 years+): 1 Adult or Jumbo Mouse once a week Most corn snakes subsist entirely on mice, though they occasionally accept alternative feeders. Feed in a separate box or enclosure from where they live — this helps the snake focus on food and prevents accidental substrate ingestion. DO NOT HANDLE A SNAKE WITHIN 24 HOURS OF FEEDING!

Provide at least 2 hide boxes — one on the hot side, one on the cool side. A humidity hide filled with damp moss can be offered during shedding to help the snake shed more easily. Include a water dish large enough for the snake to soak in, plus branches, logs, fake plants, and other objects for enrichment and exploration. Recommended substrates: Aspen Shavings, Cypress Mulch, Mixed mulch and soil substrates, Repti-Carpet, Paper Towels, or Newspaper. IMPORTANT: Corn snakes are escape artists — enclosures must have secure locking doors and/or lids.

Hot side: 85–90°F. Cool side: 70–75°F. Never drop below 65°F. Humidity: 40–50%. Use heat mats and under-tank heaters controlled by thermostats. No special lighting required, though a low-watt full spectrum UVA/UVB light can be beneficial if used no more than 12 hours/day.

NJ Exotic Pets recommends Paws, Wings & Scales — Christopher F. Stancel, DVM. 125 Paterson Ave, Suite 1, Little Falls, NJ 07424. Phone: (973) 638-1180. Email: pwsanimalhospital@gmail.com. Annual check-ups are highly recommended.

Corn snakes can live 20+ years — a long-term commitment. IMPORTANT LEGAL NOTE: It is ILLEGAL in the state of New Jersey to own corn snakes with black eyes. All corn snakes sold and owned in NJ must be some morph of albino or leucistic. Ensure your enclosure has a secure locking lid as this species is known to escape. Budget for thermostat-controlled heating and annual vet visits.