So, you’re thinking about getting your very first snake? Exciting, right? When I was in your shoes, I had a mix of curiosity, a pinch of fear, and a million questions. Out of all the options out there, I chose a Corn snake as my first pet snake—and honestly, it was one of the best decisions I’ve made as a beginner reptile keeper.
In this post, I’ll walk you through why corn snakes are such a popular choice, what makes them beginner-friendly, and what you should know before bringing one home.
Why the Corn Snake Makes a Great First Pet Snake
When it comes to beginner snakes, the corn snake is like the “friendly neighbor” of the reptile world. Here’s why they stand out:
- Gentle Temperament – Corn snakes are known for being calm and easy to handle. They rarely show aggression, which makes them less intimidating for newbies.
- Manageable Size – They usually grow to about 3–5 feet long—big enough to look impressive but not so large that they’re unmanageable.
- Low Maintenance – Compared to some exotic reptiles, corn snakes don’t demand crazy conditions. With the right enclosure setup, they thrive easily.
- Beautiful Patterns & Colors – They come in a variety of morphs (colors and patterns), which means you can find one that really catches your eye.
My Experience With a Corn Snake as a First Pet
I’ll be honest—I was nervous the first time I picked up my corn snake. But within a week, I realized how chill they are. They don’t mind gentle handling, and watching them explore their enclosure was oddly relaxing.
Feeding was also simpler than I expected. Frozen-thawed mice (not live ones) are the standard diet, and once you get used to the routine, it’s pretty straightforward.
What You’ll Need Before Getting a Corn Snake
If you’re set on getting a corn snake as your first pet snake, make sure you’re prepared. Here’s a quick checklist:
- Enclosure (Tank or Terrarium): Around 20–40 gallons for an adult.
- Heating & Lighting: A heat mat or ceramic heat emitter to keep one side of the tank warm (around 85°F).
- Hiding Spots: At least two—one on the warm side and one on the cool side.
- Water Dish: Big enough for soaking.
- Substrate: Aspen shavings, paper towels, or reptile-safe bedding.
Pros and Cons of Choosing a Corn Snake
Like any pet, corn snakes come with their ups and downs.
✅ Pros
- Easy for beginners
- Affordable compared to many other snakes
- Long lifespan (15–20 years with good care)
- Docile and friendly
⚠️ Cons
- Escape artists—make sure the enclosure is secure
- May refuse food occasionally (normal but can worry beginners)
- Live prey should be avoided, which might disappoint some owners expecting “wild” feeding
Final Thoughts: Is a Corn Snake the Right First Pet Snake for You?
If you’re on the fence, here’s my advice: a corn snake as your first pet snake is almost always a safe bet. They’re calm, relatively easy to care for, and a joy to watch. More importantly, they’re forgiving of beginner mistakes, which is a huge relief when you’re just starting out.
For me, owning a corn snake was the perfect entry into the reptile world. If you’re ready to take the plunge, I’d say go for it—you might just find yourself hooked on snakes for life.
Written by
Imtiaz Ivan
Chief Editor at Animal Ranger