The Black Corn Snake is a fascinating creature that captures the attention of the snake lovers. With its sleek, dark appearance, this snake stands out in a world full of vibrant and colourful species. Often overlooked due to its more flamboyant relatives, the Black Corn Snake has a unique charm that lies in its simplicity. In this article, we explained everything about this corn snake morph, which you want to know.
History of the Black Corn Snake
The history of the Black Corn Snake, also known as the Anerythristic Corn Snake, begins with the natural Corn Snake, a species native to the southeastern United States.
The Black Corn Snake morph was first identified by breeders who noticed some Corn Snakes had a genetic mutation that removed their red pigments. This mutation, known as Anerythristic, causes the snake to have a darker appearance, with shades of black, grey, and brown instead of the typical reddish-orange hues.
In the late 20th century, reptile breeders began to focus on this unique trait, selectively breeding Corn Snakes that carried the anerythristic gene. Over time, they produced a stable line of Black Corn Snakes, making this morph widely available to snake enthusiasts.
The popularity of the Black Corn Snake grew as people appreciated its striking appearance and the potential to create even more interesting morphs by combining it with other genetic traits. Today, it is one of many beloved Corn Snake morphs, cherished for its distinctive look.
Taxonomy and Classification
Understanding the scientific background of this Black Snake morph helps in appreciating its place in the natural world. This Snake morph is a variant of the Corn Snake, scientifically known as Pantherophis guttatus. This species belongs to the Colubridae family, which is a large family of non-venomous snakes. Corn Snakes are native to the southeastern United States, and the Black Corn Snake is just one of the many colour morphs that exist within this species.
Classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Reptilia |
| Order | Squamata |
| Family | Colubridae |
| Genus | Pantherophis |
| Species | Pantherophis guttata |
Black Corn Snake Characteristics
Black Corn Snake Appearance: The Black Corn Snake, also known as the Anerythristic Corn Snake, has a striking and unique appearance. Instead of the typical reddish-orange colours found in most Corn Snakes like pink cornsnakes and red corn snakes, the Black Corn Snake has shades of black, grey, and brown. It’s not fully black.
Its body is covered in a pattern of dark blotches or saddles that run along its back, with a lighter grey or silver background colour. Slender and muscular, with a smooth, glossy appearance. Their belly usually has a checkered pattern of black and white, giving it a distinct look. Their eyes are often dark in colour, blending in with the overall darker tones of the snake.
Size: Their length is generally between 4 and 5 feet. Some individuals may reach slightly over 5 feet, but this is less common. Like Blue corn snakes, their size is not too long, which makes them easily manageable. Female black diamond corn snakes are longer than males.
Behaviour: BlackCorn Snakes are popular among reptile lovers because of their calm nature, easy care, and wide variety of colours and patterns they come in. They are primarily nocturnal, like ball python morphs, meaning they are more active during the evening and night. They are generally less aggressive. Black corn snakes bite rarely.
Weight: Their weight is between 250 to 600 grams (about 0.5 to 1.3 pounds). The exact weight can vary depending on the individual snake’s size, age, and health.
Lifespan: Like palmetto, okeetee, and lavender corn snakes, their lifetime is about 15 to 20 years, with proper health care.
Black Corn Snake Breeding and Reproduction
Like the Albino corn snake, in the black corn snake, the process of breeding starts in spring from March to May after the process of brumation.
Health Care Before Breeding
Before breeding, make sure that the male and female Black Corn Snakes are healthy and at least 2 to 3 years old. They should be in good condition, with no signs of illness or parasites.
To encourage breeding, simulate the natural seasonal changes by cooling the snakes. Reduce the temperature in their enclosures to around 60-65°F (15-18°C) for about 6 to 8 weeks. This cooling period mimics winter and helps stimulate their reproductive cycles. Ensure both snakes are well-fed before the cooling period.
Mating
Place both male and female snakes together in one enclosure. The male black snake starts rubbing his body against the female or attempting to align his body with hers. If successful, the male will align his hemipenes (reproductive organs) with the female’s cloaca and insert them for mating. This process can last from a few minutes to an hour.
Egg-Laying and Incubation
After 30 days of mating, the female black corn snake laid eggs. The female usually has 10 to 20 eggs. After laying, she will not incubate the eggs but will leave them to be cared for. Place the eggs in an incubator set to a temperature around 78-80°F (25-27°C).
And maintain a humidity level of around 80%. The eggs should be kept on a substrate like vermiculite or perlite, which helps maintain the right humidity. After about 60-70 days, the eggs will begin to hatch.
When the baby Corn Snakes are ready to hatch, they use a special tooth to break out of their eggshells. These baby snakes are fully independent from birth.
Black Corn Snake Care Sheet
For the good health of your black corn snake, proper care is important. Here’s a detailed care sheet to help you provide the best environment for your black snake:
Housing
For a baby black corn snake, a 20-gallon tank is required. As the black snake grows, they need a 40-gallon or larger tank. Options include aspen bedding, cypress mulch, or paper towels. Avoid substrates like sand or gravel, as they can cause health issues and be difficult to clean. Provide at least two hide spots in the enclosure for the comfort of your snake; one is warm and the other is cold.
Temperature and Humidity
Maintaining the right temperature is important for your black Corn Snake’s health. The warm side of the enclosure should be kept at 85°F (29°C) and a cooler side of about 75°F (24°C). Use an under-tank heater or heat lamp to provide heat. The humidity level in the enclosure should be kept around 40–50%. This humidity level is very important for the snake to shed their skin properly.
Feeding
They are carnivorous and primarily feed on rodents. Juvenile black snakes fed pinky mice or fuzzy mice. While adult black snakes fed adult mice or small rats. To avoid digestive issues, the size of the prey should be appropriate according to the snake’s size. Fed juvenile black corn snake every 5-7 days and adult every 7-10 days.
Handling
Hold the black corn snake calmly and slowly. Sudden movements can make the snake nervous, so it’s important to be gentle. To pick up the snake, use both hands and scoop it up from underneath, making sure to support its body.
Let the snake move through your hands naturally, giving it the freedom to explore while you provide support. It’s best to avoid touching the snake’s head too much, as this can make it feel uneasy. Focus on holding the body and keep your grip firm but not tight. The snake will feel more comfortable if you stay relaxed and confident while handling it.
If you notice the snake becoming stressed or agitated, put them in their enclosure. It’s a good idea to keep handling sessions short at first, around 10 to 15 minutes. Over time, this will help you build a trusting relationship with your Black Corn Snake.
Shedding
When a Black Corn Snake is about to shed its skin, it’s like getting a brand-new outfit! The snake’s old skin starts to look dull and might even peel at the edges. To help with this, the snake will rub against objects in its habitat, like a natural exfoliating scrub.
As it begins to shed, it peels off the old skin from its head, wriggling and squirming until it’s completely removed. The process can be quite a show to watch and usually takes a few hours. Once it’s done, the snake has a bright, fresh layer of skin, making it look as good as new. It’s like a snake’s way of getting a makeover!
Diseases and Health Issues
Like all pets, Black Corn Snakes can be prone to certain health issues, but with proper care, many of these can be avoided.
- Respiratory Infections: Often caused by incorrect humidity or temperature levels. Symptoms include wheezing, mucus around the nostrils, and lethargy.
- Shedding Problems: If the humidity is too low, your snake may have trouble shedding its skin. Ensure the enclosure is properly humidified and provide a shedding box with damp moss if needed.
- Mites and Parasites: These can be a common problem, especially if the snake is exposed to wild-caught prey or other reptiles. Regularly check your snake’s skin and the enclosure for signs of mites.
- Obesity: Overfeeding can lead to obesity, which can shorten the snake’s lifespan. Monitor feeding and ensure your snake gets enough exercise.
FAQ’s
What is the average cost of a black corn snake?
The average cost of a Black Corn Snake is usually between $40 to $100. The price can vary depending on factors like the snake’s age, size, and where you buy it. Some breeders or pet stores might charge a bit more for a well-cared-for or rarer morph.
Can I breed a black corn snake with other morphs?
Breeding a Black Corn Snake with other morphs is like mixing paint colours—you never know exactly what you’ll get, but the results can be stunning! Imagine pairing a Black Corn Snake with an Albino or Lavender morph; the babies could inherit the deep, rich black of one parent mixed with the bright, striking colours of the other.
This kind of breeding opens up endless possibilities, allowing you to create snakes with one-of-a-kind patterns and colours that are not only beautiful but also rare. It’s a fun and creative way to see the magic of genetics in action, and each clutch of eggs feels like opening a mystery box filled with surprises.
Are black corn snakes venomous?
No, Black Corn Snakes are non-venomous. They are harmless to humans and rely on constricting their prey rather than venom. This makes them safe to handle and a popular choice for people who want a pet snake without worrying about venom.
Are the black corn snakes good pets for beginners?
Yes, Black Corn Snakes are great pets for beginners! They are known for being calm, easy to handle, and relatively low-maintenance. Unlike some other snakes, they don’t require special lighting or complicated care. They also have a gentle temperament, making them easy to interact with, even if you’re new to keeping snakes. And, their beautiful appearance and manageable size make them a popular choice for anyone looking to start their journey with reptiles.
Can black cornsnakes be housed with other snakes?
It’s generally not a good idea to house Black Corn Snakes with other snakes. Corn Snakes are solitary animals and prefer to live alone. Keeping them with other snakes can lead to stress, competition for food, and even injury.
Conclusion
The Black Corn Snake is a remarkable snake that offers a unique blend of beauty and ease of care, making it a perfect choice for anyone interested in keeping snakes. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced reptile keeper, the Black Corn Snake provides a fascinating pet experience with its striking appearance and gentle nature. By understanding their needs and providing proper care, you can ensure that your Black Corn Snake lives a long, healthy, and happy life.
