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• Corn Snake

Scientific Name: Elaphe guttata

Corn snakes are very adaptable when it comes to their environment. They like dry or humid weather, and can live in forests, woodlands, or rocky places as long as there is food to eat and a place to hide when it gets too cold outside.

STATUS: Least concern. They have a large area of occupancy and the population numbers seem to be consistent from year to year. They are also one of the most popular species of pet snakes.

HABITAT:  The common corn snake is native to the southern and eastern areas of the United States – from New Jersey to Florida, and from Florida to Texas. In colder areas, they hibernate through the winter, but in warmer, more coastal areas, total hibernation is unnecessary. They hide out under rock or log shelters on cold days, and take advantage of warm days to come out and sun themselves. This modified version of hibernation is known as “brumation.”

DIET:  For the most part, corn snakes like to eat mice and rats. They will also climb trees to chase a bird or a bat on occasion. The bigger the snake, the bigger the prey they will chase. As a general rule, snakes do not eat food that is significantly larger in diameter than they are. Young snakes usually begin their lives eating lizards for this very reason.

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS:  Most corn snakes are red or orange with bands or stripes of a darker red/orange shade that are then lined with black. Underneath, they are black and white striped. This pattern has many variations, however, and especially in captivity you can find corn snakes in many different colors and patterns.

Temperature Regulation

Like all snakes, the corn snake cannot control its own internal body temperature. When they get cold, they must move to a warmer spot, and vice versa. They also require humidity when getting ready to shed their skin, which in dry areas can be accomplished by taking a swim. All snakes are good swimmers.