The Cornsnake Caresheet

Introduction

The cornsnake, Pantherophis Guttata, is a member of the group of snakes called colubrids and is also known as the red rat snake. Other colubrids include kingsnakes, milksnakes and garter snakes.

It is a brightly coloured, constricting snake found in the south eastern United States in a variety of habitats ranging from cornfields and agricultural land to rocky hillsides, old walls and gardens. Although it climbs well it is basically a terrestrial snake and can often be found amongst wood and rubbish discarded by humans.

The cornsnake grows to around 4-6 feet in length and eats predominantly mice and small rats, preferring to hunt around dusk. Wild caught specimens are usually shades of red or brown on a grey or orange background and are referred to as " normals". The cornsnake has a very docile nature and simple requirements which has made it extremely suitable as a pet for the hobbyist. It is now available in many colour morphs and patterns which have been developed by breeders over the last few years.

Basic requirements

Enclosure & Heating

The cornsnakes needs are fairly simple and the correct set up and environment will increase the chances of your snake living to a ripe old age. To keep one corn snake, a vivarium or tank (with very secure lid) 3'x18"x18" seems a good size although there is no limit to how large the enclosure should be. A heat mat at one end controlled by a thermostat set at 82-85 F will provide a hot spot while the other end should be around 70-72 F. This enables the snake to move freely from one temperature to another and thus control it's own environment (thermoregulation). If the enclosure is too cool the snake will be lethargic and may not be able to digest it's food, causing health problems and sometimes regurgitation.

Lighting

Light can be provided by a low wattage incandescent light bulb or a broad spectrum reptile bulb but it should have a guard as snakes have a habit of coiling round a heat source which can cause severe burns.

Substrate & Cage Decor

A variety of substrates (bedding) can be used, newspaper is cheap, readily available and easy to clean but not very attractive. Wood chips and aspen bedding look much nicer and soiled clumps are easy to remove. Corn cob looks attractive but we have found that mould grows quickly when wet which is undesirable. Hides are also an essential requirement, preferably one at each end of the tank, not too large as the snake feels safer if it's coils are touching the sides and a water bowl large enough for the snake to soak in at shedding time.

Any decorations like artificial plants are for the owners benefit only as the snake will not even notice! Plants can be stapled to the walls to create a background and hide edges and corners. Rocks or bark pieces can be useful for the snake to rub it's nose on at the start of the shedding process.
Lastly a thermometer at each end will ensure that the temperature is easy to monitor and adjustments can be made to ensure that your pet stays happy and healthy.