When it comes to choosing a pet snake, two species often come to mind: the milk snake and the corn snake. These reptiles are popular among snake enthusiasts due to their manageable size, docile temperament, and fascinating patterns. However, while they may appear similar at first glance, these two species have several distinct differences. In this article, we’ll provide a detailed comparison between the milk snake and the corn snake, looking at their physical characteristics, habitat, temperament, care requirements, and more. By the end, you’ll have a better understanding of which snake is the best fit for you.
Physical Characteristics
One of the first things to consider when comparing these two species is their physical appearance.
Milk Snake
Milk snakes are known for their vibrant coloration, typically displaying alternating bands of red, black, and white or yellow. This striking pattern often resembles the venomous coral snake, a mimicry that helps deter predators. There are numerous subspecies of milk snakes, resulting in a wide variety of color patterns and slight variations in size.
- Size: Milk snakes generally range from 24 to 60 inches in length, depending on the subspecies.
- Pattern: Their distinctive banding pattern is often smooth and well-defined, making them easily recognizable.
- Color: While the most common colors are red, black, and white, some milk snakes display more orange or yellow hues.
Corn Snake
Corn snakes, on the other hand, are famous for their orange and reddish-brown patterns with blotches or spots rather than bands. Their patterns resemble maize, which is where the name “corn snake” originates. These snakes also have a sleek, streamlined appearance that appeals to many reptile enthusiasts.
- Size: Corn snakes typically grow to 30 to 48 inches in length, although larger specimens can exceed 60 inches.
- Pattern: The pattern on a corn snake is typically blotched, with large, irregular spots running along their body.
- Color: The common coloration of corn snakes is orange and red, but selective breeding has produced a wide range of morphs, including albino, lavender, and snow corn snakes.
Habitat and Distribution
Milk Snake Habitat
Milk snakes are native to a wide range of environments across North America, from southern Canada to northern South America. They are found in woodlands, grasslands, farmlands, and even rocky hillsides. Due to their adaptability, they can thrive in various climates, including both humid and dry areas.
In captivity, milk snakes require an environment that mimics their natural habitat. This typically includes a warm basking area and a cool side for thermoregulation. Milk snakes are also known to be escape artists, so it’s essential to provide a secure enclosure with tight-fitting lids.
Corn Snake Habitat
Corn snakes are native to the southeastern United States, particularly in wooded areas, fields, and abandoned farm buildings. They are often found near barns and grain silos, where they prey on rodents, earning them the nickname “barn snakes.”
In captivity, corn snakes are relatively easy to care for. They require a warm environment with a temperature gradient, a hiding area, and sufficient space to move around. Like milk snakes, corn snakes are skilled at escaping their enclosures, so a secure, well-ventilated tank is crucial.
Temperament and Behavior
Milk Snake Behavior
Milk snakes are generally shy and secretive. When threatened, they may rattle their tails, which can resemble the behavior of a rattlesnake. However, they are non-venomous and pose no danger to humans. Milk snakes tend to be nocturnal and are most active during the evening and early morning hours.
In terms of temperament, milk snakes are usually docile, though they can be slightly more skittish compared to corn snakes, especially when they are young. With regular handling, they become more accustomed to human interaction and can make excellent pets for snake enthusiasts.
Corn Snake Behavior
Corn snakes are known for their calm and easy-going nature. They are often recommended as the ideal beginner pet snake due to their docile temperament and willingness to be handled. Corn snakes are also crepuscular, meaning they are most active during dawn and dusk, although they may occasionally be seen basking during the day.
Corn snakes are typically more tolerant of handling than milk snakes, making them a great choice for those who want a snake they can frequently interact with.
Diet and Feeding
Milk Snake Diet
In the wild, milk snakes primarily feed on small mammals, birds, and amphibians. They are also known for eating other snakes, including venomous species, which has earned them the nickname “king snake” in some regions.
In captivity, milk snakes thrive on a diet of frozen-thawed rodents, such as mice and small rats. It’s important to ensure that their diet is appropriately sized for their age and size, as overfeeding can lead to health issues.
Corn Snake Diet
Corn snakes have a similar diet to milk snakes, feeding on small mammals like mice and occasionally birds. In captivity, they are typically fed a diet of frozen-thawed mice. Like milk snakes, the size of the prey should be appropriate for the snake’s size to avoid complications during digestion.
Both species are known to be good feeders in captivity, making feeding relatively easy for owners.
Care and Maintenance
Milk Snake Care
Milk snakes require a well-maintained environment with proper temperature and humidity levels. The ideal enclosure should provide a temperature gradient, with a basking area reaching around 85°F and a cooler side of about 75°F. The humidity should be moderate, around 40-60%, to mimic their natural environment.
Substrate options include aspen bedding or reptile carpet, which allows for burrowing. They also need a hiding spot to feel secure, as milk snakes tend to be more reclusive than corn snakes.
Corn Snake Care
Corn snakes are relatively easy to care for and are well-suited to beginner snake owners. They require similar temperature conditions, with a basking area of around 85°F and a cooler side at 75°F. Humidity levels for corn snakes can be slightly lower, generally between 30-50%.
Corn snakes enjoy burrowing, so aspen bedding or reptile-safe substrates are ideal. Additionally, providing a hiding spot and climbing structures can keep the snake enriched and healthy.
Lifespan and Health
Milk Snake Lifespan
Milk snakes have a lifespan of 12 to 20 years in captivity, provided they are given proper care. They are relatively hardy snakes, though they can be prone to common reptile ailments such as respiratory infections or parasites if their environment is not properly maintained.
Corn Snake Lifespan
Corn snakes have a similar lifespan to milk snakes, often living 15 to 20 years in captivity. They are also hardy reptiles, though regular health checks are recommended to prevent issues such as shedding problems or obesity, especially in snakes that are overfed.
Which is Better as a Pet?
When deciding between a milk snake and a corn snake, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. Both snakes are excellent choices for reptile enthusiasts, but there are some differences to consider:
- Milk snakes may be a bit more skittish and require a little more patience when it comes to handling. However, their stunning coloration and banding patterns make them a striking addition to any collection.
- Corn snakes are often the go-to choice for beginners due to their calm demeanor and ease of handling. They are low-maintenance and come in a variety of colors and patterns thanks to selective breeding.
Regardless of which species you choose, both milk snakes and corn snakes are fascinating, beautiful reptiles that can provide years of enjoyment.
