Corn Snake (also known as the Red Rat Snake)
Pantherophis guttatus • Order: Squamata; Suborder: Serpentes; Family: Colubridae; Subfamily: Colubrinae; Genus: Pantherophis; Species: P. guttatus
Venomous Status
Non-venomous; lacks fangs and venom glands (aglyphous dentition).
Danger Level
Harmless; they generally lack aggression toward humans and their bite, while potentially startling, causes minimal mechanical damage.
Geographic Range
Native to the Southeastern and Central United States, ranging from New Jersey south to the Florida Keys and west to Utah and Louisiana.
Conservation Status
Least Concern (IUCN); however, they face threats from habitat loss and being mistaken for venomous species.
Physical Description
Bright orange to brownish-yellow ground color with large, black-edged red or orange dorsal blotches. This specimen shows a vibrant juvenile pattern and a classic spear-shaped mark on the head. Pupils are round, and scales are weakly keeled.
Size & Dimensions
This specimen is a juvenile, likely 10-14 inches (25-35 cm). Adults typically reach 2 to 5 feet (61-152 cm) in length.
Habitat
Found in wooded groves, rocky hillsides, meadowlands, woodlots, and abandoned buildings. They are proficient climbers (semi-arboreal) and are often found from sea level to about 1,850 meters.
Behavior & Temperament
Typically docile and reluctant to bite. Primarily crepuscular or nocturnal in hot weather. Defensive behaviors include tail vibrating (mimicking a rattlesnake) and S-curving the neck.
Diet & Feeding
Primarily rodents, but also birds, eggs, and occasionally amphibians or lizards. They are active foragers and kill prey via constriction.
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 & Safety
Venom Type
Non-venomous - no medically significant venom.
First Aid Advice
If bitten, wash the area with soap and water to prevent infection. No antivenom is necessary. If the identity is uncertain, seek professional medical evaluation.
Look-alikes
Commonly confused with the venomous Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix), but distinguished by round pupils (vs. vertical), lack of heat pits, and a checkerboard belly pattern (vs. copper/tan). Also resembles the Prairie Kingsnake.
Conservation Status
Least Concern (IUCN); however, they face threats from habitat loss and being mistaken for venomous species.
Cultural Significance
Highly significant in the pet trade as the most popular pet snake due to their calm nature. Ecologically vital for controlling rodent populations near agricultural areas (hence the name 'Corn Snake').
Notable Features
The name 'Corn Snake' likely derives from the belly scales resembling kernels of variegated corn or their frequent presence near corn granaries to hunt mice.