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What Are the Different Corn Snake Breeds?

Sandi Johnson
Sandi Johnson

Corn snakes are popular pet snakes included in the Elaphe guttata species of rat snakes. The two subspecies of this constrictor snake are indigenous to North America. They are the corn snake and the red rat snake, known by other common names such as the chicken snake, the rat snake, and the eastern corn snake. Although not officially recognized, numerous engineered corn snake breeds are identified and sold by professional breeders and pet stores. Various morphs created by such breeders, like colored and patterned morphs, are sold as specialty or designer corn snake breeds.

In the wild, corn snakes and red rat snakes display a variety of markings and colors, leading to common confusion with kingsnakes and copperheads. Characteristically, both corn snake breeds are long and slender, with various brown, orange, black, and white patterns nearly identical to copperheads or kingsnakes. Rat snakes native to North America, unlike copperheads and kingsnakes, are neither venomous nor particularly dangerous to humans. Similarities between wild corn snake breeds and other venomous snakes are attributed to protective mimicry, keeping corn snakes safe from would-be predators.

Corn snakes have become a popular type of snake to keep as a pet.
Corn snakes have become a popular type of snake to keep as a pet.

While technically not official corn snake breeds, morphs account for the majority of corn snake variations in the pet snake industry. Morphs are snakes bred for specific coloration or patterning. In regards to corn snakes, they can be classified into four primary categories, based on the appearance of certain colors and patterns. Crossbreeding of both wild corn snake subspecies results in additional unofficial corn snake breeds commonly sold by professional breeders. Specific categories include color morphs, pattern morphs, compound morphs, and hybrids.

Mice may be fed to a corn snake.
Mice may be fed to a corn snake.

Color and pattern morph corn snake breeds include normal, Okeetee, lavendar, and stripes, to name a few. Normal corn snake breeds are those snakes in captivity that display the same colors and patterns as wild corn snakes. Okeetee corn snakes are known for pronounced red saddles against prominent black borders. Lavendar corn snakes display a slightly pink body with various shades of purple saddles along its back. Stripe corn snakes are typically orange and white, with long horizontal stripes instead of saddles or spots.

Compound morph corn snake breeds number in the tens of thousands. By breeding and crossbreeding existing morphs, breeders establish a variety of blotchy patterns in a veritable rainbow of colors. Popular variations include snow, pewter, and amber. Each variation is known for specific colors or patterns, such as the characteristic pink and white blotches of a snow corn snake or the all-over silver color of pewter corn snakes.

Hybrid corn snake breeds are the result of crossing the two recognized subspecies of corn snakes. A Great Plains rat snake, better known as a red rat snake, bred to a normal corn snake results in what is known as a root beer corn snake. Crossing a root beer corn snake with an albino corn snake results in what is known as a creamsicle corn snake. Likewise, crossing a normal corn snake with a kingsnake results in what is known as a jungle corn snake.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common breeds of corn snakes?

The most common breeds, or more accurately morphs, of corn snakes include the Normal or Wild-type, which displays the classic red or orange color with black-bordered blotches. The Albino or Amelanistic morph lacks dark pigmentation, resulting in a snake with red, orange, and yellow coloring. The Okeetee morph has deep red saddles with thick black borders, while the Snow morph combines the traits of the Albino and Anerythristic, resulting in a white snake with pink or yellowish hues. The Anerythristic morph lacks red pigmentation, giving it a grayscale appearance. Lastly, the Caramel morph has a caramel-brown base color with darker brown or black markings.

How do different corn snake breeds vary in terms of care requirements?

Care requirements for different corn snake morphs are generally consistent across breeds. They all require a warm environment with a temperature gradient, appropriate humidity levels, and a diet of appropriately sized rodents. The primary differences lie in their appearance rather than their care. It's important to provide hiding spots and a secure enclosure, as all corn snakes are adept escape artists. Regular handling can help keep them tame and accustomed to human interaction.

Are certain corn snake breeds more suitable for beginners?

Yes, certain corn snake morphs are particularly suitable for beginners due to their docile nature and simple care requirements. The Normal or Wild-type corn snake is often recommended for first-time snake owners because of its hardiness and the ease of meeting its care needs. Albinos and Anerythristics are also popular among beginners, as they are not only beautiful but also share the same resilient characteristics.

Can different corn snake breeds interbreed, and if so, what are the results?

Different corn snake morphs can indeed interbreed, and the results are often new and unique combinations of the parent morphs' traits. For example, breeding an Albino corn snake with an Anerythristic can produce a Snow corn snake, which exhibits a pale, almost white coloration. These combinations are predictable based on Mendelian genetics, allowing breeders to create a wide variety of visually striking morphs.

What is the lifespan of a corn snake, and does it vary by breed?

The lifespan of a corn snake is typically around 15 to 20 years in captivity, with some individuals living even longer with optimal care. This lifespan does not significantly vary by breed, as all morphs of corn snakes share similar genetics and care requirements. Proper diet, housing, and regular veterinary care contribute to a long and healthy life for these snakes.

Are there any legal considerations to keep in mind when owning different corn snake breeds?

Legal considerations for owning corn snakes can vary depending on local laws and regulations. Some areas may have restrictions on owning certain types of pets, including reptiles. It's essential to research and comply with state and municipal laws, which may require permits or have specific rules regarding the keeping and breeding of corn snakes. Always ensure that you are legally allowed to own the morph you are interested in before making a purchase.

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    • Corn snakes have become a popular type of snake to keep as a pet.
      By: KJ Lodrigue, Jr.
      Corn snakes have become a popular type of snake to keep as a pet.
    • Mice may be fed to a corn snake.
      By: Rafal Kucharek
      Mice may be fed to a corn snake.