Corn Snake (Red Rat Snake)
Pantherophis guttatus • Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Colubridae, Subfamily: Colubrinae, Genus: Pantherophis, Species: P. guttatus
Southeastern United States, ranging from New Jersey south to the Florida Keys and west to Louisiana and parts of Kentucky.
Look up Corn Snake (Red Rat Snake) in the Snake Encyclopedia →Venomous Status
Non-venomous (Aglyphous teeth)
Danger Level
Harmless; they pose no threat to humans or pets. Bites are rare and usually only occur if the snake is heavily provoked or handled improperly.
Family
Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Colubridae, Subfamily: Colubrinae, Genus: Pantherophis, Species: P. guttatus
Conservation
Least Concern (IUCN). However, they face threats from habitat destruction, road mortality, and the pet trade.
Physical Description
Yellowish-tan to orange-brown ground color with a series of large, dark-bordered reddish-orange blotches along the back. The scales are weekly keeled. The head is relatively narrow with a distinct ‘V’ or spear-shaped marking. The eyes have round pupils.
Size & Dimensions
The specimen appears to be an adult, approximately 3 to 4 feet in length. The species typically ranges from 24 to 72 inches (61 to 182 cm) at full maturity.
Habitat
Found in pine barrens, rocky hillsides, meadows, and agricultural areas. They are terrestrial and semi-arboreal, often utilizing abandoned buildings or rodent burrows. Typically found from sea level to about 750 meters.
Behavior & Temperament
Primarily nocturnal or crepuscular, especially during hot summer months. They are generally docile and hesitant to bite, preferring to flee or vibrate their tails in leaf litter to mimic a rattlesnake when threatened.
Diet & Feeding
Active foragers that primarily feed on rodents, birds, and eggs. They kill their prey through constriction. They are highly motivated hunters and excellent climbers.
Reproduction
Oviparous (egg-laying). Females typically lay clutches of 10 to 30 eggs in late spring or early summer. Incubation lasts about 60 to 65 days.
Venom Profile
Non-venomous - no medically significant venom.
Look-alikes
Commonly confused with the Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix), which has hourglass-shaped crossbands and a broader head. Also similar to the Eastern Milk Snake (Lampropeltis triangulum), which has smooth scales and a different head pattern.
Conservation Status
Least Concern (IUCN). However, they face threats from habitat destruction, road mortality, and the pet trade.
Cultural Significance
Crucial for ecosystem balance by controlling rodent populations. They are arguably the most popular snake in the pet trade due to their calm temperament and variety of color morphs.
Notable Features
Checkered belly pattern (black and white) resembles Indian corn, which is one theory for the origin of their common name. They are highly skilled climbers capable of ascending vertical tree trunks.