Corn Snake (Hatchling - Various Colours) | Pantherophis guttatus
Plan the habitat for the adult animal, with secure housing and room to carry out its natural behaviour.
At a Glance
| Origin & natural habitat |
Southeastern United States; woodland, grassland and field edges. |
| Adult size |
Usually 90–150 cm; some exceed this. |
| Lifespan |
15–25 years. |
| Temperament |
Individuals vary; allow time to settle before any handling. |
| Activity |
Dusk and night-active, with some daytime exploration. |
| Social needs |
House individually. |
Housing & Setup
Enclosure dimensions are length × depth × height unless stated otherwise. Plan for the adult animal; larger, suitably furnished housing is encouraged.
| Adult housing |
At least 120 × 60 × 60 cm; larger adults need a length at least equal to their full body length and depth around half that length. |
| Temperature |
Basking area around 32°C; cool zone 24–27°C; provide a suitable night drop, with extra care for hatchlings. |
| Lighting & UVB |
Provide a regular day/night cycle with darkness at night. Select species-appropriate UVB, with shaded retreats and safe lamp distances. |
| Humidity / moisture |
Around 65–75% with ventilation and dry resting surfaces; provide a damp shedding hide. |
| Substrate |
Moisture-retentive, reptile-safe substrate with dry surface areas; paper towel for quarantine. |
| Furnishings & filtration |
Warm and cool hides, branches, foliage and a secure water bowl. |
Behaviour & Compatibility
House alone. Check every door, vent and cable opening for escape gaps. Support the body when handling and leave at least 48 hours after feeding.
Feeding & Nutrition
Feed appropriately sized, fully thawed whole rodents. Juveniles typically feed every 5–7 days; adults generally every 10–14 days, adjusted to size and body condition. Confirm the established schedule with the team. Whole prey should not routinely be calcium-dusted. Fresh water must always be available.
Routine Care
Check temperatures, humidity, appetite and behaviour daily. Replace drinking water and remove waste promptly. Clean bowls and contaminated furnishings regularly; monitor weight and shedding. Arrange advice from an exotics vet for persistent changes in appetite, breathing or movement.
Important Before Buying
Run and check the enclosure before collection. Adult housing requirements apply even when the animal is sold as a baby. Confirm the animal’s current food, age and supplement schedule with our reptile team.
Live Animals Are Click & Collect Only
We do not ship live animals. Order online and wait for confirmation that your animal is ready before collecting from Newlands Home and Garden Centre, Clondalkin, Dublin 22. Have the enclosure prepared and its conditions checked before collection.
