Guest Author - Christina Borders

Housing: Corn snakes do not need elaborate housing, but of course, if that is what you desire by all means go for it! An adult corn will do just fine in a 15-20 gallon tank. (EXTRA TIP: As with all snakes be absolutely sure that your corn snakes’ enclosure is escape proof! Even small and younger snakes can open and push their way out of an unsecured lid.)

For substrate you can choose among any number of things: reptile bark, newspaper, paper towels, even reptile carpet. I would suggest not using sand or any type of aspen or pine shavings. Remember to clean fecal matter as soon as you notice it. Cleaning and replacing the entire of the substrate once a month should be sufficient.

Temperature and Humidity: Although corns do best with some supplemental heat, you need not go to elaborate measures. A simple under tank heater placed under one end of the cage will do well. The other end should be heat free to allow the snake a place to get away from the hot side of his enclosure. At night the heating elements can be turned off as long as the room temperature doesn’t drop below 65 degrees F. (NOTE: NEVER EVER USE HEAT ROCKS! These can cause thermal burns and severely injure or even kill your snake.) The ideal temperature for corn snakes is around 85 degrees F, and humidity is really not needed except when shedding and even then a simple misting every other day will be enough.

Other cage accessories to include are hide boxes on both ends of the cage, clean water at ALL times in a bowl large enough for the snake to soak in, and even a couple climbing branches, though not necessary, would be a welcome addition.

Temperament:Corn snakes are, in my opinion, the most docile snakes you can purchase. Very rarely do the bite or defecate on their handler and they don’t grow to be large ‘dog eating’ giants as their python and boa cousins.

Overall corns are probably the best reptile pets out there today. Simple, easy to care for, docile and beautiful; it’s no wonder so many herp enthusiast keep a corn or two along with their other animals.

If you have any questions or comments about corn snakes or any other reptiles, then be sure to check out our forum and even contact me personally if you’d like.