Corn Snake (specifically a Ghost or Anerythristic morph)
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. This specific gray coloration suggests a captive-bred 'morph' likely found in a residential area or as an escaped/abandoned pet.
Look up Corn Snake (specifically a Ghost or Anerythristic morph) in the Snake Encyclopedia →Venomous Status
Non-venomous (Aglyphous - lacking specialized fangs)
Danger Level
Harmless; they are one of the most docile snake species and very rarely bite unless extremely stressed.
Family
Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Colubridae, Subfamily: Colubrinae, Genus: Pantherophis, Species: P. guttatus
Conservation
Least Concern (IUCN). Major threats include habitat loss and road mortality, though population is stable.
Physical Description
Slender body with a 'loaf of bread' cross-section. This specimen shows reduced red/yellow pigments (Ghost morph), appearing silver-gray with darker gray or brown saddle-shaped dorsal blotches. Head is distinct with a V-shaped mark leading to the snout. Eyes have round pupils.
Size & Dimensions
Specimen appears to be a juvenile/sub-adult approx. 60-80 cm. Adults typically reach 61-150 cm (2-5 feet) in length.
Habitat
Terrestrial and semi-arboreal. Naturally found in pine barrens, overgrown fields, forest openings, and abandoned buildings. Elevation from sea level to about 750 meters.
Behavior & Temperament
Primarily crepuscular or nocturnal. Docile temperament; if threatened, they may vibrate their tail in dry leaves to mimic a rattlesnake. Excellent climbers.
Diet & Feeding
Active foragers that primarily eat rodents, birds, and occasionally bats or lizards. They kill prey via constriction.
Reproduction
Oviparous (egg-laying). Females lay clutches of 10-30 eggs in late spring/early summer. Hatchlings emerge after 60-65 days.
Venom Profile
Non-venomous - no medically significant venom.
Look-alikes
Commonly confused with the venomous Copperhead, but distinguished by the Corn Snake's round pupils, slender head, and lack of 'Hershey kiss' shaped bands. Also looks like the Gray Ratsnake (Pantherophis spiloides).
Conservation Status
Least Concern (IUCN). Major threats include habitat loss and road mortality, though population is stable.
Cultural Significance
Extremely popular in the pet trade due to their hardiness and calm nature. Ecologically vital for controlling rodent populations near agricultural areas.
Notable Features
The 'Corn' name comes from the checkered belly pattern resembling Indian corn, or their historical presence in corn cribs hunting for mice. This specific specimen's color is a result of selective breeding for the 'Ghost' trait.