What kind of setup do I need to house a corn snake?

Question

Do I necessarily need the special lighting, heating pad etc? Or can I just house him in a simple aquarium tank without all that? I live in central Fl, my house never gets real cold.

I tried to buy a corn snake at a pet shop today and she wanted me to get all this special lighting saying it was a necessity. She wouldn't sell me the snake unless I bought it. Was she right?

Answer 1

you dont really need a special light, just one of the lights that fits on the tank. in florida you wouldn't really need a heating pad. the light should keep it warm enough.

Answer 2

No, you don't need lighting. The pet shop woman is wrong.

Also, you should NEVER use a hot rock. They are very dangerous and can burn the animal.

Quick shopping list - the basics of keeping a corn snake:

-a 3ft long / 20 gallon tank or vivarium
-aspen bedding
- a heat mat, thermostat and digital thermometer
-frozen mice
-a water bowl
-at least two hides

Answer 3

I've had a corn snake for over 10 years. I do have a heat rock for him, but I have never once seen him even close to it. Mostly, he just gets underneith his bedding. Once, he actually escaped for about 3 months and lived in our basement, which is FREEZING! When we finally found him, he was 5 times as big as when he went missing. I don't think you NEED a heat rock, but they aren't all that expensive if you want to get one just in case. But make sure your aquarium does have bedding and water for your snake!
If they won't sell to you next time you go in, I would just say you already have a heat rock set up!
Good luck!

Answer 4

I advise u to get a tank that is at least twice the length of the snake. You should get a heat mat or lamp(DO NOT GET A HOT ROCK). Get a hide, water bowl and give him or her some space to soak up the warmth.

Answer 5

when i first got my corn snake this book really helped it gives alot of good advise
Corn Snakes: The Comprehensive Owner's Guide
its by
Kathy Love, Bill Love, Bill Love