Scientific Name: Pantherophis guttatus
Native to: Southeastern United States
Adult Size: 3–5 feet
Life Span: 15–20+ years
Characteristics
Corn Snakes are docile, hardy constrictors known for their manageable size and wide variety of morphs. They are excellent feeders and adapt well to captivity, making them one of the best beginner snake species.
Care Tips
Enclosure
Juveniles can be housed in a 20-gallon enclosure.
Adults require a minimum 40-gallon enclosure or 4’ x 2’ footprint.
Provide:
• Secure lid (Corn Snakes are escape artists)
• Warm and cool hides
• Climbing branches
• Enrichment décor
Substrate
Safe options include:
• Aspen shavings
• Coconut fiber
• Paper-based bedding
Avoid cedar or pine.
Temperature and Lighting
Maintain gradient:
• Warm side: 85–88°F
• Cool side: 72–75°F
• Night: above 70°F
Heat pads or radiant heat panels regulated by thermostat are recommended.
UVB is optional but can be beneficial.
Humidity
Maintain moderate humidity:
• 40–60%
Increase slightly during shedding.
Feeding
Feed frozen/thawed rodents:
• Hatchlings: every 5–7 days
• Juveniles: every 7–10 days
• Adults: every 10–14 days
Prey should be no larger than 1–1.5x the snake’s widest point.
Final Notes
Corn Snakes are hardy and forgiving when proper temperature gradients and feeding schedules are maintained. Secure enclosures are critical due to their strong exploratory behavior.