The creamsicle corn snake (Pantherophis guttatus) is a popular and easy-to-care-for pet species of rat snake. As their name implies, creamsicle corn snakes are known for their creamy coloration and unique patterning. Native to the southeastern United States, creamsicle snakes are adept climbers and like to hide in crevices or under tree bark. They thrive in captivity, as they can be easily tamed with regular handling and require minimal space compared to other reptiles.
Geographic Location
Creamsicle corn snakes are native to the southeastern United States, and more specifically, can be found in parts of North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana. In the wild creamsicle, corn snakes prefer wooded habitats close to water sources.
Genetics
Creamsicle corn snakes are morphs of the common corn snake, which have an orange-colored body with black and white patterning. creamsicle corn snakes carry two copies of a recessive gene that gives them their signature creamsicle coloration. This color can vary slightly in intensity depending on the individual creamsicle corn snake.
Lifespan
Creamsicle corn snakes typically live for 10-15 years in captivity, though some specimens may reach 20 years of age.
Appearance
Creamsicle corn snakes have a white or pale orange base color with black-brown markings and stripes running down their backs. These patterns often resemble the creamsicle ice cream bar, hence their name. Adult creamsicles can reach between 2-3 feet in length and tend to be slender in build.
Behavior
Creamsicle corn snakes are typically docile and calm animals who enjoy being handled regularly. They do well in captivity and may even become tame enough for children to handle with supervision.
Diet
In the wild creamsicle corn snakes are opportunistic feeders, eating small mammals such as mice, voles, rabbits, and shrews. In captivity, creamsicles should be provided with a diet mainly consisting of rodents. They should be fed 1-2 times per week, depending on their size and condition.
Care
Creamsicle corn snakes require a relatively straightforward care regimen. They should be housed in an enclosure no smaller than 20 gallons, with a temperature gradient of 75-82F. The enclosure should be lined with some sort of substrate materials, such as aspen bedding or paper towels. A hide box and several branches for climbing are also necessary components of creamsicle corn snake enclosures. These animals will thrive when given the proper habitat and diet, making them an excellent choice for beginner reptile keepers.
Mating Season
Creamsicle corn snakes typically reach sexual maturity around 18-24 months of age. In the wild creamsicles usually breed from late April to early June, but in captivity, breeding can take place at any time of year. Female creamsicles may lay up to 25 eggs per clutch and should be provided with a laying box or substrate material for them to deposit their eggs. eggs will incubate for about 8-10 weeks before hatching.
Can Creamsicle Corn Snake Make Good Pets?
Creamsicle corn snakes make great pets for reptile enthusiasts of all levels. They are easy to care for, docile, and beautiful in coloration. With proper husbandry, creamsicles can be long-lived captives who can provide hours of enjoyment for their keepers!
Creamsicle corn snakes can make wonderful additions to your family if you take the time to learn about their needs and provide them with a safe and comfortable habitat. So if you’re looking for a unique pet that is low maintenance yet interesting enough to captivate your attention, the creamsicle corn snake may be just what you need!
Do Creamsicle Corn Snake Bite?
Creamsicle corn snakes are generally docile creatures who rarely ever bite. They are not aggressive and will usually retreat or remain still when approached by humans. With regular, gentle handling creamsicles can become tame enough for children to handle with supervision. If a creamsicle does bite, it is usually due to stress or fear. It is important that any creamsicle in captivity be handled properly and kept in an environment that suits its needs. That said, creamsicles can make great pets if given the proper care!
Housing
Creamsicle corn snakes are fairly small and can be housed in a 10-20 gallon enclosure. The enclosure should have a secure lid with ample ventilation, a hide box for the creamsicle to feel safe, rocks or branches to climb on, and a substrate such as aspen bedding or paper towels. The temperature should range from 72–85°F during the day and 65-70°F at night. A UVB light is not necessary for creamsicles but may help promote natural behaviors and prevent boredom.
8 Little Known Facts
- Creamsicle corn snakes are non-venomous
- Creamsicles can live up to 20 years in captivity when provided with proper care
- Creamsicles have yellow and orange markings on their body
- Creamsicles can be kept in a group, but should not be housed together until they reach sexual maturity
- Creamsicles are opportunistic feeders and typically eat small mammals such as mice or voles.
- Creamsicles should be given a variety of prey items to keep them interested and healthy.
- Creamsicle can be the perfect pet for reptile enthusiasts of all levels.
- Creamsicles are usually very docile creatures and rarely bite when handled properly.
Conclusion
Creamsicle corn snakes are vibrant, low-maintenance pets that can provide hours of enjoyment for their keepers. With the right habitat, diet, and handling creamsicles can be a long-lived companion that is sure to captivate your attention. So if you’re looking for a unique pet that doesn’t require much maintenance yet still offers an interesting experience, creamsicles may be just the reptile you need!
