Corn Snake
Pantherophis guttatus • Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Colubridae, Subfamily: Colubrinae, Genus: Pantherophis, Species: P. guttatus
Southeastern United States, from New Jersey south to Florida and west to Louisiana and parts of Kentucky.
Look up Corn Snake in the Snake Encyclopedia →Venomous Status
Non-venomous
Danger Level
Harmless; they are docile and rarely bite unless severely harassed. They pose no threat to humans or pets.
Family
Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Colubridae, Subfamily: Colubrinae, Genus: Pantherophis, Species: P. guttatus
Conservation
Least Concern (IUCN). Generally stable, though threatened locally by habitat loss and road mortality.
Physical Description
Distinctive orange or brownish-yellow ground color with large, black-bordered red or orange dorsal blotches. Venter has a black and white 'checkerboard' pattern. The head features a 'spear' or 'V' shaped marking points toward the nose, and the pupils are round.
Size & Dimensions
Specimen appears to be a juvenile/sub-adult. Adults typically range from 61 to 152 cm (24-60 inches) in length.
Habitat
Terrestrial and semi-arboreal; prefers pinelands, hardwood hammocks, swamps, and agricultural areas. Often found near abandoned buildings or rodent-rich grain stores.
Behavior & Temperament
Primarily nocturnal or crepuscular, but active during the day in cooler weather. Known for a docile temperament; defensive behavior typically involves tail vibrating and musking rather than striking.
Diet & Feeding
Constrictor; primarily feeds on rodents (mice, rats), but will also consume small birds, bats, and occasionally lizards or eggs. Active forager.
Reproduction
Oviparous (egg-laying). Females lay clutches of 10-30 eggs in early summer, which hatch in about 60-65 days.
Venom Profile
Non-venomous - no medically significant venom.
Look-alikes
Commonly confused with the venomous Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix), which has hourglass-shaped bands (wide on sides, narrow on spine), slit pupils, and no checkerboard belly.
Conservation Status
Least Concern (IUCN). Generally stable, though threatened locally by habitat loss and road mortality.
Cultural Significance
One of the most popular pet snakes globally due to their temperament and color morphs. Ecologically vital for controlling rodent populations.
Notable Features
Named 'Corn Snake' either for the checkerboard belly pattern resembling Indian corn or for their frequent presence near corn cribs where they hunt rodents.