How big can a corn snake get?

Colubrids are the largest family of snakes with over 249 genera. Among these snakes, the most famous is likely the corn snake. In fact, you may be considering purchasing one of these reptiles yourself. However, certain questions such as “how big can corn snakes get” may very well be preventing you from making that final decision.

If you’re looking to learn a bit more about corn snakes, you’ve come to the right place. With this guide, you will hopefully be able to determine if a corn snake is the right pet snake for you. You may even have a preference on which sex to choose, or whether you would prefer to start with a hatching or adult.

How Big can Corn Snakes Get?

It’s important to understand that corn snakes do not occupy the top of the food chain. Neither do the majority of mid-sized constrictors that occupy a similar ecological niche. They evolved to consume small mammals, lizards and birds in their native habitats. Corn snakes need to get big enough to handle these prey items and other similarly sized snakes. However, they still aren’t “top dog”, so to speak. These snakes are still small enough to be a valuable food source for other animals, completing their role in the food chain. Because of this, these snakes have evolved to hide whenever they sense danger or conflict.

With that being said, corn snakes, like all animals, vary in how big they can eventually get. Certain factors, like genetics, sex, and quality of care can all impact your pet’s growth. On average, however, these reptiles can reach anywhere from around 3 to 6 feet (92-182 cm) in length. They remain fairly slender compared to other constrictors, however, staying at around 2 pounds. If you are curious about how these reptiles compare to similar pets, we would recommend checking out “corn snakes vs ball pythons – which pet snake is better for beginners”.

Thankfully, it is their moderate size and non-aggressive disposition that makes them good pets. When properly socialized, this is an animal that will be extremely tolerant of handling. It may even grow to enjoy your company.

Males vs Females

Now, you may have previously heard that female snakes tend to grow larger than males. While this is true in many cases, it is not for the corn snake. While the difference in size isn’t drastic, males tend to reach around while 4.5 feet females stay at around 3.5-4.

How do Corn Snakes Grow?

How big a corn snake can get will be partially determined by early life care. You want to make sure that they are getting proper nutrition in a quality, stress free environment from the beginning. A healthy corn snake that is consistently fed properly should grow around 12 to 18 inches per year. They typically stop growing at around 2-3 years. You will typically see a significant growth spurt when your baby graduates from pinkies and fuzzies to hoppers and medium sized mice. If you believe that your snake is experiencing a failure to thrive, be sure to get it medical attention as soon as possible.

Why is it Important?

You are going to have to fully understand how big a corn snake can get if you’re considering owning one. Especially if you’re looking at corn snakes for sale and setting up an enclosure. A pet’s size will determine the size of its enclosure, the kinds of food you are going to provide for it, and how easy it is to transport. Thankfully, these reptiles are easy to handle for most adults. They will need little in terms of special requirements, and are easy enough to house. If you are looking for a way to acquire everything you need for a baby snake, we would recommend 10-gallon corns snake starter kit. These kits will have everything you need to make sure that your pet is healthy and happy. Simply purchas a 10-gallon tank and locking lid at your local pet store and add the starter kit.

Final Thoughts

We’re not here to say that these reptiles are the perfect pet for everyone. However, when considering certain factors, such as how big a corn snake can get, their general temperaments, and relative ease of care, it’s plain to see that these animals can thrive in a variety of homes.

If you have been looking at corn snakes for sale and want a sign to take the leap, we say go for it. They make excellent, long lived, relaxed pets that happen to look pretty cool. Who knows, more than one may slither its way into your heart soon enough!