Candy Cane Corn Snake| 07 Facts and Genetics
The Candy Cane Corn Snake is a morph of the Corn Snake (Pantherophis guttatus), a species of rat snake native to the southeastern United States. This morph is characterized by its distinct coloration, a combination of red, white, and black. The color pattern typically consists of red and white stripes, which gives the snake a resemblance to a candy cane, hence its name.
The Candy Cane Corn Snake is a popular morph among snake enthusiasts due to its attractive coloration and its docile nature. They make great pets, are relatively easy to care for, and are hardy animals.
Candy Cane Corn Snake Appearance
The Candy Cane Corn Snake is a morph of the Corn Snake (Pantherophis guttatus) known for its distinct coloration and pattern. The color pattern typically consists of red and white stripes, which gives the snake a resemblance to a candy cane, hence its name. The red and white lines are usually evenly spaced and run the length of the body but can vary in width and intensity. The background color of the Candy Cane Corn Snake can range from yellow to orange and even pink, with the red and white stripes providing a striking contrast.
The pattern on the head is usually solid, usually black, but it can have some white or red spots. They have round pupils, and their scales are smooth and glossy. Juveniles typically have a similar pattern to adults, but the colors tend to be more subdued.
Candy Cane Corn Snake Size
The Candy Cane Corn Snake is a morph of the Corn Snake (Pantherophis guttatus), a species of rat snake native to the southeastern United States. Adult Candy Cane Corn Snakes typically reach a length of around 4–5 feet (1.2–1.5 meters). They are medium-sized snakes with average body size and a slender build. They are not considered to be giant snakes.
Candy Cane Corn Snake Genetics
Candy Cane Corn Snakes are a morph, or genetic variation, of the Corn Snake (Pantherophis guttatus). The Candy Cane morph is characterized by a red and white striped pattern on the snake’s body, similar to the appearance of a candy cane. This morph results from the selective breeding of Corn Snakes that have the Anerythristic (Anery) gene, which eliminates the red pigmentation, and the Amelanistic (Amel) gene, which removes the black pigmentation. The combination of these two genes results in a primarily white snake with red stripes.
Candy Cane Corn Snake Breeding
Candy Cane Corn Snakes are created through selective breeding. To produce a Candy Cane Corn Snake, breeders will first pair a Corn Snake with the Anerythristic (Anery) gene with another Corn Snake with the Amelanistic (Amel) gene. The offspring of this pairing will be primarily white with red stripes but will also carry the Anery and Amel genes.
To produce more Candy Cane Corn Snakes, the breeder will pair these snakes with other Corn Snakes that also carry the Anery and Amel genes. This will increase the chances of producing more snakes with the red and white striped pattern, but it will also result in some offspring that don’t have the desired way.
What do Candy Cane Corn Snakes eat?
Candy Cane Corn Snakes, like all corn snakes, are primarily carnivorous and eat mainly rodents in the wild. In captivity, they are typically fed a diet of frozen or live mice or rats, depending on their size. The prey should be appropriately sized for the snake, as overfeeding or underfeeding can lead to health problems.
It’s also important to note that Corn Snakes are picky eaters, so it may take some time for them to adapt to a new diet. Also, providing a bowl of water for the snake to soak in is a good idea, as this will help keep its skin hydrated.
How long do Candy Corn Snakes live?
Candy Cane Corn Snakes, like all corn snakes, generally include a lifespan of around 20–25 years in captivity with proper care. However, it is common for some individuals to live even longer. Their lifespan may be shorter in the wild due to predation and other environmental factors.
Proper care is essential to ensure that a Candy Cane Corn Snake lives long and healthy. This includes providing a suitable diet, appropriate temperature and humidity, and regular veterinary check-ups. It’s also essential to give a spacious and secure enclosure with plenty of hiding places and climbing structures.
How do I keep my Corn Snake happy?
There are several ways to keep your corn snake happy and healthy:
- Provide a suitable enclosure: Corn snakes require a spacious and secure compartment with plenty of hiding places and climbing structures. The section should also have a proper temperature and humidity level, which can be achieved using a heat lamp and a water dish.
- Feed them properly: Corn snakes should be fed a diet of frozen or live mice or rats appropriately sized for their size. It’s essential not to overfeed or underfeed your corn snake, as this can lead to health problems.
- Provide fresh water: Always provide fresh water for your corn snake and change it every few days to ensure it stays clean. Also, providing a bowl of water for the snake to soak in is a good idea, as this will help keep its skin hydrated.
- Handle with care: Corn snakes can become stressed or frightened if handled roughly or too frequently. It’s best to take your corn snake infrequently and for short periods, and always support its entire body while taking it.
- Regular veterinary check-ups: Regular check-ups with a veterinarian who is experienced with reptiles will help to ensure that your corn snake is healthy and happy.
- Provide a suitable environment: Corn snakes are naturally curious animals, so providing a stimulating environment for them to explore will keep them mentally active and promote their physical and mental well-being.
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