Corn Snake (Elaphe guttata)

huua this snake is the beautiful one that i want to adopt, i love their pattern and their colour..hehe

The Corn Snake is also commonly known as the Red Rat Snake. There are two interesting stories on how the Corn Snake received its common name. The first involves the early European settlers to America, who often found these snakes in cornfields and assumed they were eating the corn. Of course snakes are strict carnivores and were associated with cornfields only for the mice and rodents that were the real corn threats. The second story involves the belly of the snake which has a pattern resembling maize or Indian corn. Regardless of which origin is true, corn snakes are valuable and beneficial inhabitants of farm and field by helping control rodent populations.

In general, Corn Snakes are very peaceful, medium size snakes. They rarely bite and reach an average adult size of 4' to 6'. They are commonly used in educational programs because of their calm temperament and size. They also display an extensive array of colors that has been taken to extremes by captive breeding programs. Corn Snakes are naturally and most commonly found in patterned shades of red, but can now be purchased from almost pure white to gray to pink to lavender and shades of yellow. All varieties still demonstrate a "spear head" design on the top of the head. A typical corn snake will live 10 to 15 years, but they have been documented over 20 years of age.

Captive Breeding Status:

The corn snake is one of the easiest snakes to breed. They will lay one clutch of eggs per year with clutch sizes ranging from 1 to 30 depending on the size/age of the female and the subspecies. Incubation period of the eggs lasts 55 - 70 days at a temperature range of 78ºF - 84ºF. Females provide no care for the eggs or young and artificial incubation produces the best results. When moving eggs it is important not to roll them as this can kill the embryo inside. To prevent this, a common felt tip ink marker can be used to mark the top before moving. Growth of juvenile corn snakes can range from 1' - 2' per year depending on feeding schedule.

Native Range/Habitat:

Corn Snakes are native to the Southeastern United States from Virginia to Florida as far west as Missouri. Like most snakes, they are crepuscular and are most active at dawn and dusk, though most sightings are during day time sun basking. Corn snakes are semi-arboreal, and are equally found on the ground or in trees.

Diet/Feeding:

Corn snakes are rodent feeders. As juveniles, they require baby or pinky mice. Corn snakes are usually strong, avid feeders and should be fed every 7-14 days. Adults will readily accept full-grown mice or small rats.

Housing:

As juveniles, corn snakes can be kept in screen-topped aquariums. Minimum size should be 30" x 12 x 16". As adults, they should be kept in larger aquariums or enclosures at least 48" x 13' x 18". Corn Snakes are very adept climbers and openings must be securely fitted to prevent escape.

Like all snakes, Corns prefer to have a hiding box for sleeping and sense of security. They also prefer climbing branches.

Fresh water should be provided daily. Corn snakes will occasionally soak themselves in water dishes so size and sturdiness can help prevent tip or spill over accidents. Water bowls that have been soiled should be replaced immediately.

The cage substrate should be pine shavings, fir bark, mulch, or reptile carpeting. Natural substrates sold implicitly for pet use are typically heat sterilized, while landscaping or outdoor materials may introduce harmful mites or bacteria. Cages should be cleaned once a week or upon soiling.

Corn snakes are less heat sensitive than many other reptiles, but should be kept above 70ºF except for pre-breeding hibernation. Hibernation is not a requirement for nonbreeding pets. Under-the-tank heat pads or specialized reptile incandescent bulbs are preferred and readily available heat sources. Temperatures should not rise above 85ºF and glass cages should never be placed in direct sunlight.

General Comments:

Corn snakes are one of the best pet snakes to own due to their peaceful nature, low care demands, colorful variety options, and manageable adult size. While peaceful, Corn Snakes tend to be curious and active - and require constant attention and proper support/handling. Always support the snake with two hands to prevent it from falling and getting injured or irritated.

There are several closely related snakes that have similar care as the Corn Snake. These include Black Rat Snakes, and several European "Rat" snakes, and geographical subspecies such as the Everglades Rat Snake. Specific care information for these varieties is available from your local pet store or numerous reference books.

source : Tetra-Fauna