Knowra Corn snake Corn snake The corn snake (Pantherophis guttatus) is a nonvenomous North American rat snake recognized by reddish-orange coloration and a patterned belly. It is widely kept as a pet.
Pantherophis : A genus of nonvenomous snakes native to North America, including corn snakes and several rat snakes. Corn snakes belong to this genus, whose species are often called North American rat snakes.
Constrictor : An animal that subdues prey by wrapping around it and applying pressure. Corn snakes restrain prey by constriction rather than relying on venom.
Reptile husbandry : The care and management of reptiles in captivity, including housing, temperature, diet, and health. Corn snake welfare depends on husbandry that supplies suitable heat, shelter, and feeding.
Amelanistic corn snake : A corn snake morph lacking melanin, which typically has red, orange, and white coloration. This familiar captive form demonstrates how a single pigment difference changes appearance.
Colubridae : A large family of snakes that includes many nonvenomous species as well as some rear-fanged venomous species. This family places corn snakes among a broad group of mostly harmless snakes.
Snake thermoregulation : The behavioral regulation of body temperature by moving among warmer and cooler environments. As ectotherms, corn snakes use environmental temperature to regulate bodily functions.
Terrarium : An enclosed habitat used to keep land-dwelling plants or animals, including reptiles. A corn snake's enclosure must provide secure space, hiding places, and a temperature gradient.
Okeetee corn snake : A selectively bred corn snake form known for vivid orange coloration and broad black borders around its saddles. Its bold pattern exemplifies the striking variation selected by corn snake breeders.
Rat snake : A common name for several constricting snakes that prey on rodents and belong to different lineages. Corn snakes are rat snakes, named for their frequent use of rodents as prey.
Ecdysis : The periodic shedding of an animal's outer layer, including the skin of reptiles. A growing corn snake sheds its complete outer skin in a process called ecdysis.
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