Corn snakes are one of the most popular pet snakes in the UK, known for their docile temperament, vibrant colours, and relatively easy care requirements. Whether you’re a first-time reptile owner or an experienced keeper, corn snakes are a fantastic choice for anyone interested in owning a snake. This guide will cover everything you need to know to keep a healthy, happy corn snake.
1. Overview of the Corn Snake (Pantherophis guttatus)
Corn snakes are native to the southeastern United States, where they are found in forests, grasslands, and agricultural areas. The name “corn snake” comes from the speckled pattern on their scales, which resembles the appearance of maize (corn) kernels. In the wild, they play a vital role in controlling rodent populations, particularly in farming communities.
In captivity, corn snakes have become highly popular due to their relatively manageable size, peaceful nature, and stunning variety of colour morphs. They are non-venomous constrictors, meaning they kill prey by wrapping around it and squeezing rather than injecting venom.
2. Choosing a Corn Snake
Before acquiring a corn snake, it’s important to consider the variety of morphs (colour variations) available. While the standard corn snake is typically orange with black markings, there are numerous morphs, ranging from albino to snow, lavender, and more. When selecting your corn snake, consider the following:
- Age: Juvenile corn snakes are easier to handle and train but may require more frequent feeding. Adult corn snakes are calmer but may need larger enclosures.
- Health: Look for signs of good health, such as clear eyes, a smooth, well-formed body, and alertness.
- Source: It’s best to buy from a reputable breeder or pet shop that follows ethical breeding practices. This ensures that the snake is healthy and free from parasites or illnesses.
3. Setting Up the Enclosure
Corn snakes are relatively low-maintenance reptiles when it comes to their housing, but providing an appropriate enclosure is vital to their well-being. Here’s what you’ll need to create a suitable environment for your corn snake:
- Enclosure Size: A 3-foot (90 cm) long vivarium is ideal for a single adult corn snake. You can start with a smaller enclosure for juveniles but upgrade as your snake grows. The enclosure should be tall enough to allow your snake to stretch out comfortably.
- Substrate: Use aspen bedding, coconut husk, or reptile carpet for substrate. Avoid using pine or cedar shavings, as these can be toxic to snakes.
- Temperature and Lighting:
- Temperature: Corn snakes are ectothermic, meaning they rely on external heat sources to regulate their body temperature. The temperature gradient within the enclosure should range from 24°C (75°F) on the cool side to 30°C (86°F) on the warm side. Use a heat mat or heat lamp to maintain this temperature gradient.
- Lighting: Corn snakes don’t require UVB lighting like some other reptiles, but a regular day/night light cycle (12 hours of light, 12 hours of darkness) is beneficial to keep their circadian rhythm in check.
- Humidity: Corn snakes thrive in humidity levels of 40-60%. To maintain proper humidity, mist the enclosure occasionally, but avoid keeping it too damp.
- Hiding Spots: Provide at least two hiding spots—one on the warm side and one on the cool side. These allow your snake to regulate its body temperature and feel secure. You can use caves, wooden hides, or hollow logs.
- Water Bowl: Corn snakes drink a lot of water, so provide a clean, shallow water bowl large enough for the snake to soak in if it wishes. Be sure to change the water daily to prevent contamination.
4. Feeding Your Corn Snake
Corn snakes are carnivorous and feed primarily on small rodents like mice and rats. Here’s what you need to know about feeding your corn snake:
- Diet: Juvenile corn snakes should be fed appropriately-sized pinkie mice, while adults can eat larger mice or even rats. In the UK, frozen mice or rats are easily available from pet stores or online retailers. Ensure the prey is thawed fully before offering it to your snake.
- Feeding Frequency:
- Juveniles: Feed every 5-7 days.
- Adults: Feed every 7-10 days.
Corn snakes have a slow metabolism, and overfeeding can lead to obesity. It’s important to only feed them prey that is about the same size or slightly larger than the widest part of their body.
- Feeding Tips:
- Feed your corn snake in a separate container to avoid associating feeding time with its enclosure, which could make the snake aggressive.
- If your corn snake refuses food, it’s usually not a cause for concern unless it continues for several weeks. Factors like shedding, seasonal changes, or stress can cause a temporary loss of appetite.
5. Handling and Socialization
Corn snakes are typically docile and tolerate handling well. However, they may need time to adjust to their new environment and humans. Here’s how to handle your corn snake:
- Initial Handling: Wait for a week or two after bringing your snake home before attempting to handle it. This gives it time to acclimatise.
- Handling Tips:
- Approach your snake gently and support its body fully when lifting it.
- Handle your snake for short periods, no more than 20-30 minutes at a time.
- Avoid handling your snake right after it has eaten, as it may become stressed or regurgitate its meal.
6. Health Care and Common Issues
Corn snakes are generally hardy reptiles, but there are a few common health issues to watch out for:
- Mites and Parasites: These can be transmitted from other reptiles, so always quarantine new animals before introducing them to your collection. Regularly check your snake for signs of external parasites, such as black spots or redness around the eyes.
- Respiratory Infections: Symptoms include wheezing, laboured breathing, or discharge from the nostrils. If you notice any of these signs, contact a vet with experience in reptiles immediately.
- Shedding Problems: Corn snakes shed their skin regularly, but sometimes, they may experience issues like retained shed around the eyes or tail. Ensure the humidity is appropriate and provide a rough surface for your snake to rub against during shedding.
- Regulated Veterinary Care: It’s essential to have access to a reptile-veterinarian. While corn snakes are generally low-maintenance, occasional check-ups or care during illness can ensure your pet stays healthy.
7. UK Legislation and Regulations
In the UK, corn snakes are not a protected species, and they are legal to own as pets. However, there are regulations surrounding the importation and sale of exotic animals. Here’s what you should know:
- Pet Shop Licences: Reptile breeders and pet shops in the UK must be licensed by their local council. Be sure to buy from a licensed seller to ensure the snake was ethically bred.
- Animal Welfare Act 2006: This law outlines the responsibility of pet owners to ensure their animals’ well-being. Ensure you provide your corn snake with the proper environment, nutrition, and medical care.
8. Conclusion
Corn snakes are an excellent choice for reptile enthusiasts, especially in the UK, where they are widely available and easy to care for. With the right environment, diet, and care, a corn snake can live a long, healthy, and happy life. As with any pet, it’s important to do thorough research and prepare before bringing one home. By following this guide, you’ll be well on your way to providing the best possible care for your corn snake.
