Corn Snakes (Pantherophis guttatus) are among the most popular and widely kept pet snakes due to their docile nature and striking appearance. Native to the southeastern United States, they are named for their distinctive pattern of alternating red, orange, and black scales, which resemble the colors of Indian corn. In the wild, Corn Snakes inhabit a variety of environments, including grasslands, woodlands, and agricultural fields, where they use their camouflage to blend in with the leaf litter and hunt small rodents. These snakes are known for their excellent climbing abilities and are often found in trees or hiding in debris. They are non-venomous constrictors, using their muscular bodies to subdue prey before swallowing it whole.

In captivity, Corn Snakes are renowned for their ease of care and varied color morphs, including albino, anerythristic, and caramel, which have been selectively bred to produce an array of vibrant hues and patterns. They are relatively small compared to other pythons and boas, with adults typically reaching lengths of 3 to 5 feet (0.9 to 1.5 meters). Corn Snakes are also known for their calm and friendly temperament, making them an ideal choice for both beginner and experienced snake enthusiasts. Their feeding habits in captivity involve a diet primarily of pre-killed mice or rats, and they generally thrive with minimal special requirements, making them a low-maintenance but fascinating addition to any reptile collection.