Corn Snakes

The second post for the day focuses on corn snakes. For me, corn snakes are simply adorable. My first snake I got was a snow corn and she is beautiful who brings me so much joy. They're easy to handle and make great starter snakes that do not require a lot of care.

An adult corn snake reaches around 5-6ft in length but unlike pythons, corns are thinly bodied. This means that when you consider how you will heat their vivarium, a heat mat would do the job. They are native to North America and are related to the Rat Snake. Don't forget to ensure that the heat mat is roughly one third of the total floor space of the tank. Females can be housed together although not everyone would agree with this.

Crimson

The most popular form of bedding for corn snakes is aspen shavings. This should be around one inch deep in the vivarium. Ensure that the heat mat is protected by either glass or perspex, assuming the vivarium is wooden. They require a temperature at the hot end of 30 - 32⁰C and a humidity reading of around 50%, increasing this when they are in shed if needs be. Clean water daily is essential for corns as it is with all snakes. Adding to the vivarium requirements: hiding areas are also needed for the snake to feel secure. You should place at least 2 hides in your viv, one at the hot end and one at the cold end. 

Snowy

Unlike royals, corn snakes do not typically have problem sheds. If they do, it is due to stress. The most important parts to check after a shed is the snake's head and tail tip. If they do have a problem shed, raise the humidity in their viv and give them a bath in luke warm water. This will soften the shed and make it easier to come off.

When it comes to feeding, corn snakes are not fussy and will eat mice. These prey items need to be thawed at room temperature and I wait two hours for them to thaw out before offering them to my corns. Offer the food to the snake by dangling the mouse in front of the animal using tongs. This usually insights interest almost instantaneous and will provoke a feeding response. Please see below for videos.

 

Corn snakes make great pets because they are very easy to look after. They also handle well, reluctant to bite and are very forgiving for beginners if you make a mistake. Furthermore, they come in a wide range of morphs and colours to choose from. They're great to show off to friends and family.