If you’re a reptile enthusiast, you know there’s nothing quite like the thrill of keeping a slithering scaly friend. But when it comes to choosing your companion, how do you decide which is best for you? We’ll help you decide by comparing two popular snake species: the corn snake and the king snake. In this article, we’ll explore the similarities and differences between these two iconic reptiles and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision.
| Corn Snake | King Snake |
|---|---|
| Colors range from pale yellow to dark brown | Colors range from black, brown, yellow, red, and white |
| Grows to average of 4 feet | Grows to average of 4-6 feet |
| Nonvenomous | Nonvenomous |
| Primarily found in North America | Found in North America, Central America, and South America |
Google Feature Snippet Answer: Corn Snakes and King Snakes are both non-venomous and found in North America, but their colors and sizes differ. Corn Snakes are typically pale yellow to dark brown in color and grow to an average of 4 feet while King Snakes are black, brown, yellow, red, and white in color and grow to an average of 4-6 feet.
Chart Comparing: Corn Snake Vs King Snake
| Features | Corn Snake | King Snake |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 2-5 feet | 3-6 feet |
| Color | Various shades of red, yellow, and black | Various shades of black, yellow, and white |
| Diet | Rodents | Rodents, lizards, frogs, and birds |
| Average Lifespan | 10-20 years | 10-20 years |
| Distribution | Eastern and Central United States | Throughout United States and Mexico |
| Behavior | Generally docile and mild-mannered | Generally more aggressive than corn snakes |
| Habitat | Woodlands, fields, and rocky hillsides | Woodlands, fields, and deserts |
Corn Snake Vs King Snake – A Comparison
Corn snakes and king snakes are two species of colubrid snake native to North America. They are both docile, non-venomous, and popularly kept as pets. But there are a few key differences between these two species that potential pet owners should consider.
Appearance
Corn snakes and king snakes are both quite similar in appearance. They can both be found in a variety of colors and patterns, and have a similar body shape. The key difference between these two species is the size; corn snakes typically grow between 1.5 and 5 feet in length, while king snakes can reach up to 8 feet.
Another important difference between these two species is that king snakes have a single line of light-colored scales down their back, while corn snakes do not. Additionally, king snakes have a lighter-colored stripe down the length of their body, while corn snakes do not.
Behavior
Corn snakes and king snakes have different behaviors in captivity. Corn snakes are generally quite docile and easy to handle, while king snakes tend to be more active and may be more difficult to handle. King snakes are also more likely to bite than corn snakes, so it is important to be aware of this when considering which species to keep as a pet.
Corn snakes and king snakes also have different feeding habits. King snakes are known to be more aggressive eaters, while corn snakes tend to be more finicky. Corn snakes also require more frequent feedings than king snakes.
Habitat
Corn snakes and king snakes are both native to North America. Corn snakes are most commonly found in the southeastern United States, while king snakes can be found throughout the United States, in Canada, and even in Mexico.
Corn snakes prefer more humid habitats, while king snakes prefer drier habitats. Additionally, corn snakes prefer to stay close to the ground, while king snakes are more likely to climb trees and other structures.
Lifespan
Corn snakes and king snakes have different lifespans in captivity. Corn snakes typically live between 10 and 20 years in captivity, while king snakes can live up to 25 years.
Additionally, corn snakes are more prone to health problems than king snakes, so it is important to be aware of this when considering which species to keep as a pet.
Cost
The cost of keeping a corn snake or a king snake as a pet can vary significantly depending on the size, color, and other factors. Generally speaking, corn snakes tend to be cheaper than king snakes, but both species can be quite affordable.
One important factor to consider when deciding which species to keep as a pet is that king snakes will require larger enclosures than corn snakes, so the cost of setting up a habitat for a king snake may be higher.
Care Requirements
The care requirements for corn snakes and king snakes are quite similar. Both species require a warm and humid habitat with plenty of hiding places. Additionally, both species should be provided with a variety of frozen and live prey to ensure a balanced diet.
One important difference between these two species is that king snakes are more sensitive to temperature fluctuations, so their habitat should be monitored closely. Additionally, king snakes require more frequent handling than corn snakes, so potential pet owners should be prepared to spend more time handling their king snake.
Conclusion
Corn snakes and king snakes are both popularly kept as pets, but there are a few key differences between these two species that potential pet owners should consider. Corn snakes tend to be smaller, less aggressive, and require less frequent handling than king snakes. Additionally, corn snakes are more prone to health problems than king snakes, so it is important to be aware of this when making a decision. Cost is also a factor to consider when deciding which species to keep as a pet, as king snakes may require a larger enclosure and more frequent handling.
Corn Snake Vs King Snake Pros & Cons
Pros of Corn Snakes
- Easy to care for, with a predictable diet and few health issues
- Typically friendly, relaxed temperament
- Brightly colored and patterned, making them attractive to look at
Cons of Corn Snakes
- Can be quite skittish and nervous
- Not as colorful or as large as some other types of pet snakes
Pros of King Snakes
- Very hardy, with few health issues
- Easy to care for, with a predictable diet
- Often quite docile, although some may be more aggressive
- Very colorful, with a wide range of patterns and color combinations
Cons of King Snakes
- Not as friendly as other types of pet snakes
- Can be quite skittish and nervous
Which is Better – Corn Snake Vs King Snake?
When deciding which snake is better between a Corn Snake and a King Snake, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, the size of the snake is important, as some people may not have the space for a larger species. Secondly, the temperament of the snake should be taken into account, as some snakes are more docile than others. Finally, the ease of care should be taken into account, as some snakes require more maintenance than others.
When looking at the size of the snake, a Corn Snake is generally smaller than a King Snake. Corn Snakes usually grow to between 3-4 feet, while King Snakes can grow up to 5-6 feet. Therefore, if space is a concern, then a Corn Snake may be the better option.
When looking at the temperament of the snake, both a Corn Snake and a King Snake can make great pets. However, Corn Snakes are generally considered to be more docile than King Snakes. This means that Corn Snakes are usually more tolerant of being handled and are less likely to be aggressive. Therefore, for someone looking for a more docile pet, a Corn Snake may be the better option.
Finally, when looking at the ease of care, both Corn Snakes and King Snakes are relatively easy to care for. However, King Snakes may require more maintenance due to their larger size. They may also require more food than a Corn Snake, as they are larger animals. Therefore, if ease of care is a concern, a Corn Snake may be the better option.
In conclusion, both Corn Snakes and King Snakes can make great pets. However, when deciding which one is better, size, temperament and ease of care should be taken into account. Ultimately, if space and ease of care is a concern, then a Corn Snake may be the better option. Here are three reasons why a Corn Snake might be the better choice:
- Smaller size compared to King Snakes
- Generally more docile temperament
- Easier to care for than King Snakes
Frequently Asked Questions
Corn Snakes and King Snakes are both popular pet snakes. Both are relatively easy to care for and can make great pets. Here are some frequently asked questions about the differences between Corn Snakes and King Snakes.
What is the difference in size between a Corn Snake and a King Snake?
Corn Snakes typically grow to be around 3-4 feet in length while King Snakes can grow to be up to 5-6 feet in length. King Snakes tend to be a bit bulkier than Corn Snakes and can weigh a bit more. Corn Snakes are generally more slender in shape and can weigh slightly less than King Snakes.
However, size can also depend on the species of each type of snake. There are many subspecies of Corn Snakes and King Snakes, some of which are smaller or larger than the average size.
What is the difference in color between a Corn Snake and a King Snake?
Corn Snakes usually have a reddish-brown, yellow, or orange base color with black or dark brown markings. King Snakes typically have a black, grey, or brown base color with white or yellow markings. However, there are many color variations depending on the species of each type of snake.
Corn Snakes can have a wide range of colors and patterns, from bright yellow to almost black. King Snakes can have solid colors, stripes, or spots. Some species of King Snakes have bright colors, like red or yellow, while others may have more muted colors.
Are Corn Snakes or King Snakes more aggressive?
Generally, Corn Snakes are less aggressive than King Snakes. King Snakes can be more defensive when they feel threatened and may bite if they feel threatened. Corn Snakes, on the other hand, are more likely to try to escape if they feel threatened.
However, it is important to remember that each individual snake can have its own personality and may not fit the general description of its species. It is important to handle each snake with caution regardless of the species.
What is the difference in care between a Corn Snake and a King Snake?
Corn Snakes and King Snakes both require similar care. Both types of snakes need a large enclosure, with the appropriate substrate and hiding places. They both should have a temperature gradient in their enclosure, with temperatures ranging from 75-85 degrees Fahrenheit.
Both types of snakes also need a regular diet of live rodents. However, King Snakes may need slightly larger prey than Corn Snakes. King Snakes may also need more frequent feedings than Corn Snakes.
Are Corn Snakes or King Snakes more expensive?
The cost of Corn Snakes and King Snakes can vary depending on the species and the age of the snake. Generally, Corn Snakes are less expensive than King Snakes. The cost of a Corn Snake can range from $20 to $100, while the cost of a King Snake can range from $50 to $200.
The cost of caring for a Corn Snake or a King Snake can also vary depending on the size of the enclosure and the amount of food needed. Both types of snakes require similar care, but King Snakes may need slightly larger enclosures and more frequent feedings than Corn Snakes.
The Best 1st Time Snake, Milk vs King vs Corn?
Corn snakes and King snakes are two of the most popular pet snakes, but they have a few key differences. Corn snakes have a more docile temperament, are more colorful, and have less venom than their King snake counterparts. Regardless of the differences, both species can make great pets for people of all ages. With proper care and respect, these snakes can live a long and healthy life in captivity. Whether you choose a Corn snake or a King snake, you’ll have a loving and loyal reptilian companion for years to come.
