Thread: Considerations before buying a Corn Snake

Corn snakes make an ideal first snake. They are fairly easy to care for, don't grow too big(four to six feet) and are available in a stunning array of colours and patterns.

So, you want a Corn snake? What do you need to know?

Firstly, you need to decide whether you want a hatchling or a grown on snake. Grown on Corn snakes can be better if they are to be handled by young children as they are a bit less speedy than a baby and can be easier to handle.

Always buy your Corn snakes from a reputable shop or breeder. When looking at individual snakes to buy, you must look for a bright, active snake. There should be lots of tongue flicking, the snake should have bright clear eyes, no discharge from nostrils or mouth and be generally healthy looking. The skin should be even with no flaky bits or damaged scales. You should always handle the snake you may wish to buy, so you can see for yourself that it is a healthy animal.

Make sure you will have the time to care for your snake. You will need to check your snake morning and night. He will require fresh water daily and any dirt removing from his viv/tub. You will also need to deep clean and replace substrate at least once a month.

Before you can actually buy your first Corn, you need to have the right equipment to care for it. You will need............

Housing.......... vivarium or tub (really useful box) with ventilation
Heat............... heat mat, or ceramic and appropriate guard.
Hides.............. at least one in the hot and one in the cool end
Substrate........ kitchen roll, newspaper, aspen, orchid bark, aubiose
Water............ fresh water daily in a bowl big enough for your snake to soak in
food............. appropriately sized frozen food.

It is important that you have a good set up ready before bringing your new snake home. I will cover set up in another thread.