Strawberry Corn Snakes, also known as Pantherophis guttatus, are native to the southeastern United States. Strawberry Corn snakes typically measure between 24 and 48 inches in length when fully grown. They have a vibrant pinkish-red base color with yellow or white speckles across their bodies. Strawberry Corn snakes are very docile, making them great for beginner snake owners. They are also relatively easy to care for and can live up to 20 years in captivity. Strawberry Corn snakes require a warm habitat with plenty of hiding spots and regular feeding. These snakes make interesting and rewarding pets as they can recognize their owners over time.
Are Strawberry Corn snakes Rare?
Strawberry corn snakes are not considered to be rare. They are a color morph of the corn snake (Elaphe guttata), which is a species of snake that is commonly kept as a pet. Corn snakes are popular because they are easy to care for and have a docile nature. Strawberry corn snakes are named after their pinkish-red coloration and are produced by breeding corn snakes that carry the recessive “strawberry” gene. These snakes are not found in the wild, but they can be readily purchased from breeders or pet stores.
Lifespan
Corn snakes have a lifespan of around 10-15 years, although some individuals have been known to live for as long as 20 years in captivity. The lifespan of a corn snake can be influenced by a variety of factors, including genetics, diet, and living conditions.
Appearance
Strawberry Corn Snakes are most recognizable for their vibrant pinkish-red base color, with yellow or white speckles across their bodies. Strawberry Corn Snakes have thin black and white stripes along the sides of their head, which can be used to distinguish them from other species of corn snakes. Strawberry Corn Snakes typically measure between 24 and 48 inches in length when fully grown, though they may grow even longer depending on their environment. Strawberry Corn Snakes also have thick bodies and arrowhead-shaped heads, making them easy to identify.
Habitat
Strawberry Corn Snakes require a warm habitat in order to thrive. They prefer temperatures between 80-85 degrees Fahrenheit during the day, with slightly cooler temperatures at night. Strawberry Corn Snakes should also have access to plenty of hiding spots, as they feel most safe when enclosed in small spaces. Strawberry Corns typically live in woodland areas or near bodies of water where there is ample food supply and vegetation for them to hide in.
Diet
As a general rule, corn snakes should be fed a diet consisting of small mice or rats. The size of the prey should be appropriate for the size of the snake. Baby corn snakes should be fed appropriately sized pinky mice, while larger corn snakes may need to be fed small adult mice or small rats. It is generally recommended to feed corn snakes prey that is no larger than the widest part of the snake’s body.
In terms of frequency, corn snakes should be fed once a week when they are young, and every 10-14 days as they grow older. Corn snakes can be fed live prey or pre-killed prey, depending on the preference of the owner. It is important to ensure that the prey is appropriately sized and to monitor the snake’s weight to ensure that it is at a healthy level. Overfeeding can lead to obesity and other health problems.
Temperament
Strawberry Corn Snakes are very docile creatures that make great pets for beginner snake owners. These snakes rarely strike at humans, but it’s best to be cautious when handling them. Strawberry Corn Snakes are also quite curious, and can sometimes escape their enclosures if not properly secured. Strawberry Corn Snakes may become more comfortable with humans over time and may even recognize their owners.
Mating Season
Strawberry Corn Snakes typically reach sexual maturity around the age of two and mate in the spring season. Strawberry Corns will breed for a few weeks during this period, and female Strawberry Corns can lay up to 25 eggs at a time. The eggs take roughly six weeks to hatch, after which the juveniles must be carefully monitored and provided with the necessary food and temperature.
Caring guide
Caring for a strawberry corn snake is similar to caring for any other type of corn snake. Here are some basic guidelines for caring for a strawberry corn snake:
- Provide a suitable enclosure: Corn snakes need a secure enclosure that is large enough for them to move around and explore. A 20-gallon tank is suitable for a small corn snake, but larger snakes will need a bigger enclosure. The enclosure should have a secure lid and appropriate ventilation.
- Keep the enclosure at the right temperature: Corn snakes are native to the southeastern United States, where the climate is generally warm and humid. To replicate this environment in captivity, the enclosure should be kept at a temperature of 75-85 degrees Fahrenheit during the day, with a basking spot that reaches 90 degrees. At night, the temperature should be allowed to drop to around 70 degrees.
- Provide a hiding place: Corn snakes need a place to hide and feel secure. A hiding box or hide cave can provide this.
- Offer the right diet: Corn snakes should be fed a diet of small mice or rats. The size of the prey should be appropriate for the size of the snake. Baby corn snakes should be fed appropriately sized pinky mice, while larger corn snakes may need to be fed small adult mice or small rats. It is generally recommended to feed corn snakes prey that is no larger than the widest part of the snake’s body.
- Keep the enclosure clean: Corn snakes produce waste, so it is important to keep their enclosure clean. The enclosure should be cleaned at least once a week, or more frequently if necessary. This involves removing any feces, uneaten prey, and dirty bedding, and replacing it with fresh bedding.
- Handle the snake gently: Corn snakes are generally docile and can be handled gently. It is important to handle the snake gently and be mindful of its body language. If the snake seems stressed or agitated, it is best to give it some time to calm down before handling it again.
Conclusion
Strawberry Corn Snakes make interesting and rewarding pets as they can recognize their owners over time. Strawberry Corn Snakes are fairly easy to care for, require a warm habitat with plenty of hiding spots, and can live up to 20 years in captivity. If you’re looking for an attractive pet that’s relatively low-maintenance, Strawberry Corn Snakes are an excellent option. With proper care, Strawberry Corn Snakes can make great companions for many years to come.
