The Motley Corn Snake, also known by its scientific name Pantherophis guttatus, is a species of small- to medium-sized nonvenomous snake that can be found in the southeastern United States. It is one of the most popular pet snakes due to its attractive pattern and relative docility. Motley Corn Snakes have a body that is yellow in color with large black or dark brown blotches. They have round pupils and an elliptical head. Motley Corn Snakes can grow to be up to 3 feet (1 meter) in length.
Motley Corn Snake Lifespan
Motley Corn Snakes have a lifespan of around 10-15 years in the wild. With proper care and nutrition, Motley Corn Snakes kept as pets can live for up to 20 years or more.
Appearance
Motley corn snakes (Elaphe guttata guttata) are a subspecies of corn snakes that are known for their distinctive appearance. They have a base color of orange, yellow, or red, with large, irregular black or dark brown splotches or bands running along their bodies. The pattern on a motley corn snake can vary greatly, with some individuals having more distinct bands and others having a more mottled appearance. They have smooth scales and a slender, cylindrical body shape, and typically grow to be about 3-4 feet in length. Corn snakes are nonvenomous and are popular pets due to their docile nature and relatively low maintenance requirements.
Behavior
Motley Corn Snakes are relatively docile creatures and make for great pets. They are solitary animals, meaning that they prefer to live alone. Motley Corn Snakes will sometimes hide during the day and become more active at night, making them nocturnal creatures. Motley Corn Snakes also have a very keen sense of smell, which they use to help them locate prey.
Habitat
Corn snakes, including the motley subspecies, are native to the southeastern United States. They can be found in various habitats including forests, fields, and swamps. They are most commonly found in areas with a mild climate and an abundance of rodents, which make up the majority of their diet. Corn snakes are known to be good climbers and are often found in trees, where they can hunt for prey or seek shelter. In the wild, they will also use abandoned buildings or burrows as dens.
Diet
Motley Corn Snakes are carnivorous and primarily feed on small mammals such as mice, rats, and gerbils. In captivity, Motley Corn Snakes can be fed frozen mice or live rodents as long as the size of the rodent is appropriate for the size of the Motley Corn Snake. Motley Corn Snakes can also eat other small reptiles, amphibians, and even insects.
Caring Guide
If you are considering keeping a motley corn snake as a pet, there are a few things you will need to consider in order to provide the best care for your new reptile friend.
First, you will need to set up a suitable enclosure for your corn snake. A 20-gallon tank is typically sufficient for a single adult corn snake, but larger enclosures will be needed for multiple snakes or for individuals that are larger than average. It is important to provide your corn snake with plenty of hiding spots and vertical space to climb, as well as a heat source and a way to regulate the temperature and humidity in the enclosure. Corn snakes require a substrate, such as aspen shavings or cypress mulch, to provide a comfortable and natural-feeling environment.
Next, you will need to provide your corn snake with a suitable diet. Corn snakes are carnivorous and primarily eat rodents in the wild. In captivity, they can be fed pre-killed mice or rats that are appropriate for their size. It is important to offer your corn snake a varied diet, as this can help to prevent nutritional deficiencies. Corn snakes should be fed every 5-7 days, and the size of the prey should be slightly larger than the widest part of the snake’s body.
In addition to diet and enclosure, you will also need to consider the overall health and well-being of your corn snake. This includes providing regular opportunities for your snake to bask and thermoregulate, as well as keeping the enclosure clean and hygienic. It is also important to handle your corn snake regularly in order to help prevent stress and promote a healthy bond between you and your pet.
Finally, be sure to do your research and familiarize yourself with the specific needs of corn snakes in order to provide the best care for your new pet.
Health Issues
Like all pets, corn snakes can develop health problems from time to time. Some common health issues that can affect corn snakes include:
- Respiratory infections: Corn snakes are prone to respiratory infections, which can be caused by a variety of factors such as poor husbandry, exposure to cold or damp conditions, or stress. Symptoms of a respiratory infection include difficulty breathing, swelling of the head or neck, and discharge from the nostrils.
- Mouth rot: Also known as stomatitis, mouth rot is a bacterial infection that affects the mouth and gums of corn snakes. It is often caused by improper feeding or poor hygiene. Symptoms include swelling of the gums, discharge from the mouth, and difficulty eating.
- Egg binding: Female corn snakes may experience difficulty laying eggs, which can lead to a condition called egg binding. This can be caused by a variety of factors such as poor nutrition, lack of proper nesting materials, or genetic predisposition. Symptoms include swelling of the abdomen, difficulty passing eggs, and lethargy.
- Prolapse: Prolapse is a condition in which the organs inside the body become displaced and protrude through the cloaca (the opening at the base of the tail). It can be caused by a variety of factors such as over-excitement, constipation, or injury.
If you suspect that your corn snake is experiencing any of these health problems, it is important to consult with a veterinarian who is experienced in treating reptiles. Early detection and treatment can often help to resolve these issues and prevent more serious complications.
Is Motley Corn Snake Venomous?
No, Motley Corn Snakes are nonvenomous and pose no threat to humans. Motley Corn Snakes do have sharp teeth which allow them to catch and eat their prey, but they cannot inject venom into their victims like other species of venomous snakes. Motley Corn Snakes should be handled carefully due to this fact and any bites should be treated with proper first aid. Motley Corn Snakes are generally very gentle creatures when handled correctly.
Do Motley Corn Snake Bite?
Motley Corn Snakes generally do not bite unless they feel threatened or frightened. Motley Corn Snakes will usually curl up into a tight ball and remain motionless if they are handled too roughly or startled. Motley Corn Snake bites can be painful and should be treated with proper first aid, but these snakes are not venomous so there is no risk of any serious harm. Motley Corn Snakes should be handled carefully and only by experienced handlers to avoid any potential bites.
Conclusion
The Motley Corn Snake is a popular pet snake due to its attractive pattern and docile behavior. Motley Corn Snakes can grow up to 3 feet in length, have an average lifespan of 10-15 years in the wild, and primarily feed on small mammals such as mice, rats, and gerbils. Motley Corn Snakes are nonvenomous and usually do not bite unless they feel threatened or frightened. Motley Corn Snakes should be handled with care to avoid any potential bites. With proper care and nutrition, Motley Corn Snakes can make great pets for many years to come.
