EXPERIENCE ROXY'S PET SHOP CARE SHEETS

Scientific Name: Pantherophis guttatus
Lifespan: 15–20 years (with good care)
Adult Size: 4–6 feet (average 4–5ft)
Temperament: Calm, easy to handle, ideal beginner snake

• Enclosure Type: Secure vivarium with front-opening doors recommended.
   
• Minimum Size:
   
  • Juvenile: 60x45x45cm (2x1.5x1.5ft)
     
  • Adult: 90x45x45cm (3x1.5x1.5ft) minimum
     
• Substrate:
   
  • Aspen, lignocel, or paper towels.
     
  • Spot clean when soiled; full change every 4–6 weeks.
     
• Décor: Branches for climbing, caves/hides (at both warm and cool ends), fake or live plants for cover.
   

• Basking Spot: 28–30°C (82–86°F)
   
• Cool End: 22–25°C (72–77°F)
   
• Night Temperature: Can drop to 18°C (64°F)
   
• Heating: Heat mat or ceramic bulb on thermostat; never use heat rocks.
   
• Lighting: UVB optional but recommended (2–6% UVB); on for 10–12 hours daily to mimic natural light cycles.
   

• Humidity: 40–60% — Corn snakes like moderate humidity.
   
• Water Bowl: Large, shallow bowl for drinking and soaking; change water daily.
   
• Provide a humid hide (damp moss) to aid in shedding.
   

• Diet: Defrosted rodents (appropriate size — no bigger than the snake’s widest part).
   
• Feeding Frequency:
   
  • Hatchlings: every 5–7 days
     
  • Juveniles: every 7–10 days
     
  • Adults: every 10–14 days
     
• Handling after feeding: Wait 48 hours before handling to allow digestion.
   

• Regular gentle handling keeps Corn snakes tame.
   
• Avoid handling during shed or straight after feeding.
   

• Provide a moist hide or damp moss when eyes turn blue and color dulls.
   
• Ensure full shed — including eye caps.
   

• Spot Clean: When soiled (daily check).
   
• Full Clean: Every 4–6 weeks — replace substrate, disinfect vivarium.
   

✔️ Glass or Wooden Vivarium (Front-opening, secure)
✔️ Substrate: Aspen, Lignocel or Paper Towels
✔️ Heat Mat or Ceramic Bulb + Thermostat
✔️ Digital Thermometer & Hygrometer
✔️ Basking Spot Decor (Branch or Rock)
✔️ Multiple Hides (Warm & Cool side)
✔️ Humid Hide with Moss
✔️ Large Shallow Water Bowl
✔️ Climbing Décor (Branches, Vines)
✔️ Artificial or Live Plants (for cover)
✔️ Reptile-Safe Disinfectant
✔️ Feeding Tongs
✔️ Frozen Rodents (suitable sizes)