SunKissed Corn Snake:  Ultimate Guide to Care, Cost, Breeding & Unique Traits

Marie curie

sunkissed corn snake

What if you could have a snake that glows with the warmth of a summer sunset?

The SunKissed Corn Snake boasts bright, warm hues that make it truly unique.

Wondering why this morph stands out in any collection and how to care for it effortlessly? Let’s explore the charm and beauty of the SunKissed Corn Snake morph!

SunKissed Corn Snake History & Genetics

The SunKissed Corn Snake was first developed by breeders with a vision of enhancing the warm, radiant colours of traditional corn snakes.

This morph made its appearance in the early 2000s and quickly gained popularity due to its beautiful golden and orange hues, reminiscent of a glowing sunset.

The SunKissed gene is recessive, meaning both parents must carry it to produce SunKissed offspring, making it a bit rarer compared to other morphs.

Initially, breeders focused on isolating this bright, almost ethereal colouration, which stands out in contrast to other corn snake variations.

Over time, the SunKissed gene also proved useful for combining with other morphs to create even more vivid and captivating varieties.

Its genetic influence often enhances reds, oranges, and yellows, giving offspring a warm, sunlit glow that’s hard to match.

The SunKissed morph is beloved by breeders and collectors alike for its stunning visual appeal and versatility in morph projects.

Sunkissed Corn Snake Traits

Sunkissed Corn Snake Appearance

  • Body Color: The Sunkissed Corn Snake has warm tones, typically a blend of orange, yellow, and light brown. The colour is sun-kissed, giving it a glowing, bright appearance. Its classic saddle markings are softened compared to other corn snakes.
  • Shape, Eyes & Belly: The body is slender and well-proportioned, with round, golden eyes that add to its charming look. The belly is a soft white with a checkered pattern, typical of corn snakes.
  • Head Shape and Tail: The head is wedge-shaped with a sleek, streamlined look. The tail is long and thin, tapering gradually with a continuation of its vibrant colours.
  • Speed: This Corn Snake morph is quick and agile, especially when exploring or hunting prey. However, it’s easy to handle, making it manageable for owners.
Ultra Sunkissed Corn Snake

Sunkissed Corn Snake Size & Weight

  • Size: Adult Sunkissed Corn Snakes usually grow to a length of 4-5 feet.
  • Weight: Their weight ranges from 1-2 pounds, depending on diet and overall health.

Behaviour and Temperament

  • This corn snake morph is known for being curious and friendly, which makes it a great pet for beginners.
  • It’s relatively calm and easy to handle, making interactions enjoyable.
  • It is an active snake, especially during the early mornings and late evenings.
  • It enjoys exploring its surroundings and climbing when given the opportunity.

Sunkissed Corn Snake Lifespan

They can live for 15-20 years with good care.

Sunkissed Corn Snake Cost

  • Hatchlings: Prices for hatchling Sunkissed Corn Snakes range from $80 to $150, depending on their pattern and colouration.
  • Adults: Adult Sunkissed Corn Snakes typically cost between $150 and $250.
  • Julien (High-Quality Specimens): Special, high-quality Sunkissed Corn Snakes can cost up to $400 due to their bright colours and unique patterns.
  • Where to Buy: Reputable places to buy Sunkissed Corn Snakes include specialized breeders, reptile expos, and trusted websites like MorphMarket, which ensures quality and health checks.

Sunkissed Corn Snake Breeding & Reproduction

  1. Selecting Quality Breeders

Start with a healthy male and female Sunkissed Corn Snake that showcases the desirable traits of this morph, such as bright orange and yellow colouration. This will help produce beautiful offspring with vibrant colours.

  1. Breeding Age and Weight

Females should be at least 3 years old and weigh over 300 grams, while males can be ready by 2 years of age. Proper maturity ensures successful breeding and healthy eggs.

  1. Brumation (Cooling Period)

Lower the temperature gradually to 55-65°F for 8-10 weeks to simulate winter conditions. This cooling period helps trigger natural breeding behaviours when temperatures are brought back to normal.

  1. Reintroduction for Mating

Gradually raise the temperatures back to normal (around 75-85°F) and introduce the male to the female’s enclosure. The male will show interest by actively courting the female.

  1. Mating and Courtship

If receptive, the female will allow the male to mate. The pair may mate multiple times over a few days to ensure fertilization. Mating behaviour includes the male wrapping around the female to align their bodies.

  1. Preparing for egg-laying

After successful mating, the female will eat more frequently. Increase her food intake slightly to provide additional nutrients. Ensure she has a suitable nesting box with damp moss for laying her eggs.

  1. Egg Laying Process

About 4-6 weeks post-mating, the female will lay a clutch of 10-20 eggs in the nesting box. Provide her with privacy during this time to reduce stress.

  1. Incubating the Eggs

Move the eggs to an incubator with a consistent temperature of around 80-82°F and maintain humidity at 80%. The incubation period for Sunkissed Corn Snake eggs typically lasts 55-60 days.

Discover the Stunning Sunkissed Corn Snake Morphs: A Vibrant Collection!

  1. Sunkissed Amel: A vibrant mix of bright orange and yellow with minimal dark markings, making it a collector’s favourite for its stunning brightness.
  2. Sunkissed Hypo: Features pastel-like colours with reduced dark pigmentation, showcasing a soft and gentle appearance.
  3. Sunkissed Ghost: A pale, muted snake with delicate pastel hues, known for its ethereal look that captivates snake enthusiasts.
  4. Sunkissed Snow: Striking with a white base and peachy highlights, this morph is admired for its elegant and frosty appearance.
  5. Sunkissed Lava: A fiery blend of vibrant oranges, reds, and yellows, creating a bold and dynamic pattern that stands out in any collection.
  6. Sunkissed Butter: Showcases rich golden-yellow tones combined with the Sunkissed pattern, creating a soft yet eye-catching snake.

Sunkissed Corn Snake Care Sheet

1. Enclosure Requirements

  • Tank Size:
    • Hatchlings: A cozy 10-20 gallon tank is perfect for your little Sunkissed, allowing them to feel secure.
    • Juveniles: Transition to a 20-30 gallon tank as they grow to accommodate their active nature.
    • Adults: Provide at least a 40-gallon tank for adults, ensuring they have enough room to explore and stretch out.
  • Substrate:
    • Aspen Bedding: This substrate is great for burrowing and absorbs moisture well, making it easy to clean. However, it can create dust, so monitor the environment.
    • Cypress Mulch: Perfect for maintaining humidity, this substrate is ideal during shedding periods and provides a more natural look.
    • Paper Towels/Newspaper: Easy to maintain and clean, these options are practical but may not provide the aesthetics some prefer.
    • Avoid: Stay clear of pine or cedar shavings, as the oils can be harmful to your Sunkissed Corn Snake.

2. Hides and Climbing Opportunities

  • Hides:
    • Provide at least two hides—one on the warm side and one on the cool side. This setup allows your Sunkissed to retreat and feel secure, reducing stress and promoting a healthy lifestyle.
  • Climbing Opportunities:
    • Although Sunkissed Corn Snakes are mainly terrestrial, adding branches or climbing decor can enhance their environment and provide enrichment. They’ll appreciate the chance to explore!

3. Humidity and Temperature

  • Aim for humidity levels around 40-60%. Use a reliable humidity gauge and maintain these levels by misting or incorporating a humidity box to keep your Sunkissed comfortable.
  • Basking Spot: Create a warm basking area with temperatures between 80-85°F, essential for digestion and overall health.
  • Cool Side: Ensure the cool side remains at 70-75°F for effective thermoregulation. Utilize heat mats or lamps with thermostats for consistent temperature control.

4. Lighting

  • While UVB lighting isn’t crucial for Sunkissed Corn Snakes, providing a heat source like a ceramic heat emitter or heat lamp is vital for maintaining proper temperatures in their habitat.

5. Feeding

  • Diet: They thrive on appropriately sized mice or rats, which should be chosen based on the snake’s age and size.
  • Feeding Schedule:
    • Hatchlings/Juveniles: Feed every 5-7 days to support their rapid growth.
    • Adults: Transition to feeding every 10-14 days, as their larger meals provide sufficient nutrition while allowing for longer intervals between feedings.
  • Live vs. Frozen-Thawed:
    • Frozen-Thawed: This option is safer and more convenient, eliminating the risks associated with live prey.
    • Live Prey: If you choose to offer live food, supervise closely to ensure your Sunkissed remains safe during feeding.

6. Water

  • Water Bowl: Offer a water bowl large enough for soaking, ensuring it’s shallow to prevent drowning hazards.
  • Hydration: Keep clean, fresh water available at all times, changing it daily to ensure your Sunkissed remains well-hydrated.

7. Handling

  • Frequency: Young Sunkissed Corn Snakes can be handled every few days to help them acclimate to human interaction, while adults can be handled 1-2 times a week.
  • Gentle Handling: Always support the snake’s body when handling it to minimize stress and prevent any accidental injuries.

8. Shedding

  • Shedding Signs: Watch for signs of shedding, such as cloudy eyes and dull skin, indicating that your snake is preparing to shed.
  • Humidity During Shedding: Increase humidity slightly (up to 65-70%) during shedding periods to facilitate a smoother shed.
  • Problems with Shedding: If your Sunkissed struggles to shed completely, soak them in lukewarm water for 15-20 minutes and gently assist in removing any remaining skin.

9. Health & Common Issues

  • Signs of Illness: Be vigilant for symptoms like wheezing, mouth gaping, excessive mucus, lethargy, or unusual shedding patterns, as these may indicate health issues.
  • Veterinary Care: Regular veterinary checkups are crucial for maintaining your Sunkissed’s health, especially if you notice any signs of illness.

10. Cleaning & Maintenance

  • Spot Cleaning: Remove waste and uneaten food daily to keep the habitat clean and odour-free.
  • Deep Cleaning: Conduct a thorough cleaning and sanitization of the tank once a month. Replace the substrate and disinfect the decor to ensure a healthy environment.
  • Safe Cleaning Products: Use reptile-safe cleaning agents and avoid household cleaners that may contain harmful chemicals to keep your Sunkissed safe and healthy.

Conclusion

Sunkissed Corn Snakes are special because of their bright colors and unique patterns.

Their beautiful hues and friendly nature make them a favorite for both beginners and experienced snake lovers.

These snakes are a wonderful addition to any collection and are sure to impress everyone who sees them.

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