Corn Snake (or similar rat snake species)
Pantherophis guttatus (or related Elaphe/Pantherophis species) • Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Colubridae, Subfamily: Colubrinae, Genus: Pantherophis, Species: P. guttatus
Native to the southeastern and central regions of the United States, commonly found from New Jersey south to Florida and west to Louisiana and parts of Texas.
Look up Corn Snake (or similar rat snake species) in the Snake Encyclopedia →Family
Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Colubridae, Subfamily: Colubrinae, Genus: Pantherophis, Species: P. guttatus
Conservation
IUCN Red List status is Least Concern, with stable populations across its native range, though localized threats include habitat destruction and road mortality.
Physical Description
The visible specimen is small, coiled on a black adhesive trap on a tiled floor. It displays a patterned dorsal surface with dark blotches edged in black against a lighter tan or grayish background typical of juvenile rat snakes or corn snakes.
Size & Dimensions
The visible specimen appears to be a juvenile, roughly 20 to 30 centimeters in length. Adult specimens typically range from 61 to 182 centimeters (24 to 72 inches).
Habitat
Found in wooded groves, rocky hillsides, meadows, agricultural fields, and around abandoned or derelict buildings, typically at elevations from sea level up to around 1,500 meters.
Diet & Feeding
Primarily feeds on small rodents, lizards, birds, and bird eggs. Juveniles often target lizards and small mice, utilizing constriction to subdue active prey.
Reproduction
Oviparous species, females typically deposit clutches of 10 to 30 eggs in decaying vegetation, rotting logs, or underground burrows during the early summer months.
Conservation Status
IUCN Red List status is Least Concern, with stable populations across its native range, though localized threats include habitat destruction and road mortality.
Cultural Significance
Highly valued in the pet trade and frequently kept as a captive pet. Ecologically beneficial as a natural controller of rodent populations in agricultural and suburban areas.
Notable Features
Known for exceptional climbing ability, making them one of the most popular captive snake species in the world.