Corn Snake (specifically a juvenile Eastern Corn Snake)
Pantherophis guttatus • Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Colubridae, Subfamily: Colubrinae, Genus: Pantherophis, Species: P. guttatus
Venomous Status
Non-venomous
Danger Level
Harmless; they generally pose no threat to humans and are reluctant to bite unless severely harassed.
Geographic Range
Found throughout the Southeastern United States, from New Jersey south to Florida and west to Louisiana and parts of Kentucky.
Conservation Status
Least Concern (IUCN); however, they are often killed by humans who mistake them for venomous Copperheads.
Physical Description
This specimen is a juvenile showing a grey/silver base with dark, black-bordered dorsal blotches. Adults typically turn more orange/red, though several 'morphs' exist. Distinctive 'V' shape marking on top of the head and a spear-like pattern between the eyes. Round pupils and slightly keeled scales.
Size & Dimensions
This specimen appears to be a hatchling/juvenile approximately 8-12 inches (20-30 cm) long. Adults typically reach 2 to 5 feet (61-152 cm).
Habitat
Inhabits pine forests, rocky hillsides, overgrown fields, and around grain silos or abandoned buildings. They are proficient climbers (semi-arboreal) and are often found from sea level to about 1,800 meters.
Behavior & Temperament
Primarily crepuscular (active at dawn/dusk) but can be nocturnal. They are generally docile and calm. When threatened, they may vibrate their tails to mimic a rattlesnake or strike defensively.
Diet & Feeding
Active foragers that use constriction to kill prey. They primarily eat rodents but will also consume lizards, frogs, and small birds.
Reproduction
Oviparous (egg-laying). Females lay clutches of 10-30 eggs in late spring or early summer, which hatch after about 60-65 days.
Venom Profile
Venom Type
Non-venomous - no medically significant venom.
AI-generated — see a qualified source if acting on this. For any snakebite, call emergency services immediately.
Look-alikes
Commonly confused with the Eastern Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix) due to patterns, but Copperheads have hourglass-shaped bands, heat pits, and vertical pupils. Also confused with the Prairie Kingsnake and Eastern Milksnake.
Conservation Status
Least Concern (IUCN); however, they are often killed by humans who mistake them for venomous Copperheads.
Cultural Significance
Highly valued in the pet trade for their gentle nature. Ecologically vital for controlling rodent populations near agricultural areas (hence the name 'Corn Snake').
Notable Features
The name 'Corn Snake' is believed to originate from the checkered pattern on their belly, which resembles kernels of maize, as well as their presence in corn cribs hunting rodents.