Ghost Motley Corn Snake #1

Certain provinces require permits for the keeping and transportation of reptiles, with the Eastern Cape being one such province. Permit approval processes may take up to one month, depending on the relevant authority. It is the buyer’s responsibility to ensure that any required captivity permits are applied for and approved prior to the purchase or transport of any reptile.

We will issue the necessary transport permit from the store’s name to the buyer’s name for the transfer of the animal. Thereafter, it remains the buyer’s responsibility to apply for and obtain the required captivity permit in accordance with their provincial regulations.

(Pantherophis guttatus)

Corn Snakes are one of the most popular pet snakes in the reptile hobby thanks to their manageable size, calm temperament, and straightforward care requirements. Their beautiful patterns, wide range of morphs, and generally excellent feeding response make them an ideal choice for beginner and experienced reptile keepers alike.

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Quick Facts

Common Name: Corn Snake
Scientific Name: Pantherophis guttatus
Adult Size: 90–150cm (some larger specimens possible)
Lifespan: 15–20+ years
Temperament: Generally calm, curious, and easy to handle
Difficulty Level: Beginner friendly
Activity: Mostly crepuscular / nocturnal

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Enclosure Requirements

Minimum Enclosure Size

Hatchlings / Juveniles: 60 x 30 x 30cm
Sub-adults: 90 x 45 x 45cm
Adults: 120 x 60 x 60cm recommended

Corn Snakes are active explorers and excellent escape artists, so a secure enclosure is essential.

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Enclosure Setup

Recommended:

• Secure warm hide
• Secure cool hide
• Additional hides / décor
• Water bowl large enough for soaking
• Branches / climbing opportunities
• Cork bark
• Artificial or live plants
• Secure locking lid

Corn Snakes are primarily terrestrial but enjoy climbing and exploring.

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Heating & Temperature

Day Temperatures

Warm side ambient: 28–30°C
Warm basking / hotspot: 30–32°C
Cool side: 22–26°C

Night Temperatures

Can safely drop to:
20–24°C

Heating Equipment

Recommended:

• Heat mat (thermostat controlled)
• Ceramic heat emitter
• Deep heat projector
• Radiant heat panel

Never use heating equipment without a thermostat.

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Humidity

Ideal humidity:
40–60%

During shedding:
Humidity may be increased slightly or a humid hide provided.

Too much humidity for prolonged periods can contribute to respiratory problems.

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Substrate

Suitable options:

✅ Aspen bedding
✅ Lignocel
✅ Coconut husk (if monitored)
✅ Paper towel (quarantine / hatchlings)
✅ Reptile-safe naturalistic substrate

Avoid:
❌ Cedar / pine
❌ Dusty bedding
❌ Permanently damp substrate

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Feeding

Hatchlings

Every 5–7 days

Juveniles

Every 5–7 days

Sub-adults

Every 7–10 days

Adults

Every 10–14 days

Diet

Appropriately sized frozen-thawed rodents:

• Pinkie mice
• Fuzzy mice
• Hopper mice
• Adult mice
• Small rats (larger adults only)

Feed prey no larger than approximately 1–1.5 times the widest part of the snake.

Frozen-thawed is strongly recommended over live feeding.

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Water

Fresh clean water should always be available.

Change daily or whenever soiled.

Corn Snakes may soak, especially during shedding.

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Handling

Corn Snakes are generally excellent handling snakes.

Tips:

• Allow 5–7 days settling in after arrival
• Avoid handling for 48 hours after feeding
• Support the body properly
• Handle calmly and confidently
• Juveniles may be quicker and more flighty

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Shedding

Signs:

• Dull skin
• Blue/cloudy eyes
• Reduced appetite
• Increased hiding

Ensure:

• Correct humidity
• Fresh water
• Suitable temperatures

Check tail tip and eye caps after shedding.

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Cleaning

Daily

• Spot clean waste
• Refresh water
• Check temperatures

Weekly

• Inspect enclosure
• Clean décor if needed

Monthly

• Full enclosure deep clean
• Replace substrate as needed

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Common Health Issues

Watch for:

⚠ Stuck shed
⚠ Respiratory infections
⚠ Mites
⚠ Mouth rot
⚠ Dehydration
⚠ Weight loss
⚠ Regurgitation

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Compatibility / Housing

Best kept singly.

Corn Snakes should not be housed together due to stress, feeding competition, and potential injury.

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Feeding Guide by Age

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Important Notes

• Corn Snakes are outstanding beginner snakes.
• They are highly inquisitive and capable climbers.
• Secure enclosures are essential—small gaps can become escape routes.
• Good husbandry is the key to long-term health.

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Is a Corn Snake Right for You?

Great if you want:
✔ A beginner-friendly snake
✔ Reliable feeder
✔ Manageable adult size
✔ Calm temperament
✔ Beautiful morph variety

Not ideal if you want:
✘ A very sedentary display snake
✘ A communal reptile

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Coastal Aquariums & Pet Supplies Tip

A healthy Corn Snake should have:
Clear eyes, smooth sheds, strong body condition, alert tongue flicking, and a steady feeding response.