Corn Snake Care Sheet

Corn Snake Care Sheet - Bermondsey Exotics

Corn Snake Care Sheet

General Information

  • Scientific Name: Pantherophis guttatus
  • Lifespan: 15-20 years
  • Size: 90-150 cm (3-5 feet)

Housing

  • Tank Size: Minimum 75 x 30 x 30 cm (30 x 12 x 12 inches) for an adult snake. Hatchlings can start in a 45 x 30 x 30 cm (18 x 12 x 12 inches) tank.
  • Substrate: Suitable substrates include Aspen/Lignocel, beech chips, orchid bark, and coir/bark mix. Avoid pine or cedar shavings as they can be toxic.
  • Hide Boxes: Provide at least two hides: one on the warm side and one on the cool side of the tank.

Heating

  • Temperature Gradient:
    • Warm Side: 28-30°C (82-86°F)
    • Cool Side: 22-25°C (72-77°F)
  • Night Temperature: Should not drop below 21°C (70°F)
  • Heating: Use a heat mat or ceramic heat emitter (CHE), both of which must be controlled by a thermostat. If using a CHE, ensure it is protected by a guard to prevent burns.

Lighting

  • Lighting: Corn snakes do not require UVB lighting, but providing it can benefit their overall health. Provide a day/night cycle with a 12-hour light and 12-hour dark period.
  • Photoperiod: Mimic natural conditions with a 12-hour light/12-hour dark cycle.

Humidity

  • Humidity Level: 40-50%, increasing to 60-70% during shedding.

Diet

  • Staple Foods: Appropriately sized rodents, such as mice and small rats.
  • Feeding Frequency:
    • Hatchlings: Every 5-7 days
    • Juveniles: Every 7-10 days
    • Adults: Every 10-14 days

Water

  • Water: Provide a shallow dish of fresh water daily. Ensure the water dish is large enough for the snake to soak in.

Handling

  • Handling Frequency: Handle your snake gently and infrequently to build trust. Overhandling can cause stress.
  • Support: Always support their entire body to make them feel secure.

Health

  • Shedding: Corn snakes shed regularly. Check for retained shed, especially around the eyes and tail.
  • Signs of Illness: Loss of appetite, lethargy, weight loss, abnormal feces, respiratory issues, or visible parasites. Consult a reptile veterinarian if any signs are noticed.

Cleaning

  • Spot Cleaning: Daily removal of feces and uneaten food.
  • Deep Cleaning: Monthly deep clean of the entire enclosure, including changing the substrate and disinfecting the tank and decor.

Enrichment

  • Climbing Opportunities: Provide branches, logs, and reptile-safe decor to encourage natural behaviors.
  • Hide Variety: Offer multiple hides with different textures and materials.

Common Corn Snake Morphs

  • Normal (Wild Type): Typical orange and red pattern.
  • Albino: Lack of dark pigment, sensitive to bright light.
  • Amelanistic: Bright red, orange, and white colors.
  • Anerythristic: Absence of red pigment, resulting in a grey and black pattern.
  • Snow: Combination of albino and anerythristic, resulting in a white snake with light patterns.
  • Butter: Combination of hypomelanistic and caramel traits, resulting in a yellow and white pattern.

Special Care for Certain Morphs

Some corn snake morphs require different care to suit their needs:

  • Albino Morphs: More sensitive to light; provide a more shaded environment and avoid bright lighting.
  • Snow Morphs: Generally require the same care as normal morphs, but regular health checks are important due to their genetic background.

By following these guidelines and being mindful of specific morph needs, you can ensure a healthy and happy life for your corn snake. Regular observation and proper care are key to their well-being.

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