🐍 Corn Snake (Pantherophis guttatus) Care Sheet

Origin: Southeastern United States
Size: 90–150 cm (3–5 feet)
Lifespan: 15–20 years in captivity
Temperament: Docile, inquisitive, and well-suited for beginners
Activity: Primarily crepuscular and terrestrial

🏠 Housing

• Enclosure Size: Minimum 90 cm x 45 cm x 45 cm (3' x 1.5' x 1.5') for adults

• Substrate: Aspen bedding or Lignocel. Avoid pine or cedar.

• Hides: Provide at least two snug hides—one on each side of the enclosure.

• Décor: Include climbing branches, fake plants, and a secure water bowl.

🌡️ Temperature & Lighting

• Warm Side: 28–30°C (82–86°F)

• Cool Side: 21–24°C (70–75°F)

• Night Temp: Can drop to 18–21°C (64–70°F)

• Heating: Use a thermostat-controlled heat mat or ceramic heater.

• Lighting: Not required, but a 12-hour light/dark cycle is ideal. UVB is optional but can be enriching.

💧 Humidity

• Humidity Range: 40–60%

• Water Bowl: Provide clean, fresh water in a heavy bowl large enough for soaking.

🥩 Feeding

• Diet: Frozen-thawed rodents, appropriately sized (slightly bigger than the snake’s widest point)

• Feeding Frequency:

  • Juveniles: Every 5–7 days

  • Adults: Every 7–10 days

• Feeding Tips: Ensure prey is fully thawed before offering.

🧼 Cleaning

• Spot Clean: Remove waste daily

• Full Clean: Monthly deep clean with reptile-safe disinfectant

• Shedding Support: Maintain proper humidity and include rough surfaces to aid shedding