The Basic Care Of
Corn Snakes, King Snakes
& Garters

These three species of snakes are probably the most popular amongst reptile keepers, because of their ease of keeping and their attractiveness.

Corn Snakes : The most popular species of Corn Snake is the American Carolina Corn Snake (Elaphe guttata). It is bred in a variety of colours. the normal wild colour is red and black, but its possible to get red and white ("Amelanistic" or "Amel" for short), black and white (Anerthrystic), white and pink (usually known as Snow Corn Snakes). These corn snakes grow to between 4 - 5 ft as asults and generally have a calm and even temperament.

King Snakes : King Snakes (Lampopeltis sp) are native to Southern USA and are called Kings because they are immune to Rattle Snake bites and can overcome and kill a Rattle Snake. Their normal wild colour is black and yellow banding, but they are also bred with stripes and as albinos (pink and yellow)

Garter Snakes : Garter Snakes (Thamnophis sp) are popular with keepers who do not want a snake that feeds on rodents. Garter Snakes feed predominantly on fish. There are no unusual colour varieties, but some sub-species are more dramatically marked than others and albinos are available.

Housing

All of theses snakes are best housed individually in a purpose made melamine vivarium. As a guideline, the size of the vivarium should be approximately two thirds the length of the snake in length and one third the length of the snake in width, and at least 1ft high. The overall air temperature should be between 76-84F, a water bowl and a hide must be provided. Unlike lizards, it is not essential to provide high levels of Ultraviolet lighting as they obtain their calcium from the bones of their food. Garter Snakes are an exception. If they are primarily being fed fish than a UV Light is required.

Diet

Corn Snakes and kingsnakes feed on rodents. Hatchlings feed initially on pink mice, then on fluffy mice progressing to full grown mice. These snakes should be fed once per week with one or two feed items. Make sure the food is at least at room temperature or slightly higher. Always use tweezers when feeding.

Garters feed on fish, although some adults will also take rodents. Commercial food preparations (Garter Grub) are available for both juveniles and adults. These contain all the necessary vitamins. Frozen fish, such as lance of gamma fish, can also be used. If using these frozen fish it is important to supplement the food with vitamin B1 (a supplement called Ace-High contains this). This is because frozen fish contains an enzyme which breaks down the Thiamin in their food. Without Thiamin, the snake will develop nervous disorders.

On Receipt Of Your Snake

Always set up your snake's vivarium at least one day before bringing your snake home. This will allow you to ensure the temperature settings are correct. Your snake may need a few days to acclimatise. During this period do not stress the animal by over handling. Wait a few days before offering food to the snake.

Recommended Reading

"Keeping and Breeding Cornsnakes" (AVS)
"Common Kingsnakes" (AVS)
"Garter Snakes and Water Snakes" (AVS)
"Garter Snakes and their Allies" (Practical Python Publications)
"Corn Snakes" (TFH)