King snakes and corn snakes are like the rock stars of the snake world.
Both these scaly ones are way easier to take care of than other reptiles. No complicated snake spas or fancy heat lamps needed.
This guide spills all the wiggling details about these animals in a way that’s easy to understand.
Get ready for some seriously ssssensational snake secrets.
Size Comparison: King Snake VS Corn Snake
When it comes to size, some key differences between these popular snake species might affect your decision:
Corn Snakes
| Adult Length | Typically reach 3-5 feet in length when fully grown |
| Average Adult Length | Most adults are around 4 feet long |
| Build | Slender, lighter build |
| Hatchling Size | Very small, around 8-12 inches |
| Growth Period | Reach full size within 2-3 years |
King Snakes
| Adult Length | Generally grow to 3-6 feet, depending on subspecies |
| Body Type | Thicker, more muscular body |
| Hatchling Size | Larger than corn snake babies |
| California Kings | Usually max out at 4-5 feet |
| Mexican Black Kings | Typically, stay under 5 feet |
Diet and Feeding Habits of Both the Snakes
Both corn snakes and king snakes are relatively easy to feed as pets, but they do have some notable preferences in their dietary needs.
Corn Snakes
- Primarily rodent eaters, mice make up most of their diet.
- Hatchlings start on pinkie mice and gradually progress to adult mice.
- Usually fed every 7-10 days as adults.
- Generally have gentle, predictable feeding responses.
- Rarely refuse meals once a feeding schedule is established.
- Can sometimes be picky eaters as hatchlings.
- Typically eat prey about the size of the widest part of their body.
King Snakes
- Natural-born predators with more varied appetites.
- Will eat rodents, birds, lizards, and even other snakes in the wild.
- Known for their energetic feeding response.
- May strike quickly at anything that moves during feeding time.
- Less likely to refuse food compared to corn snakes.
- Can sometimes accidentally bite themselves or their keepers when excited about food.
- Some subspecies can handle slightly larger prey items relative to their body size.
Behavior and Temperament
- Corn snakes are generally the more laid-back roommates of the snake world. They’re typically calm and rarely bite. Most corn snakes quickly adjust to regular handling and won’t put up much of a fuss during tank maintenance.
- King snakes, on the other hand, have a bit more attitude. They’re often described as more feisty. Their intense feeding response means they might accidentally nip fingers when they smell food nearby.
While both snakes can make excellent pets with regular handling, corn snakes tend to be more gentle and require less convincing, making them a slightly better choice for first-time snake keepers.
Venom and Defense Mechanisms
Both corn snakes and king snakes are completely non-venomous and pose no danger to humans. These gentle reptiles rely on other clever tactics to stay safe in the wild.
While both snakes might strike if they feel truly threatened, their bites cause little more than minor scratches, nothing worse than a paper cut.
With regular, gentle handling, most individuals of both species quickly learn that humans aren’t threats and save their defensive moves for actual predators.
| Defense Tactics | Corn Snake | King Snake |
|---|---|---|
| When Threatened | Freeze or quickly flee | More likely to hiss or strike when frightened |
| Tail Behavior | Vibrate tails against leaves to mimic rattlesnakes | They don’t have a tail behavior defense |
| Extreme Situations | May play dead | Coil into tight balls with heads protected |
| Biting Behavior | Rarely bite unless severely stressed | King snakes can’t use their bite as a defense |
| Odor Defense | No odor defense is present in corn snakes | Release a musky odor when handled roughly |
| Coloration | No sign of coloration is seen in corn snakes | Many species have warning coloration mimicking coral snakes |
Which One Makes a Better Pet?
Corn Snakes are calm, easy to handle, and typically stay around 4-5 feet, making them ideal for beginners and smaller spaces.
While friendly, king snakes can be more active and may require more patience when handled. They also grow slightly larger, up to 6 feet, and might be a bit pickier with food.
Both have beautiful appearances, but ultimately, the best choice depends on your experience and the availability of space.
Common Myths and Misconceptions
Myth #1: All king snakes are more aggressive than corn snakes.
- While king snakes can be slightly more defensive when first handled, many become just as docile as corn snakes with regular interaction.
Myth #2: Corn snakes are too fragile for beginners.
- Actually, corn snakes are among the most forgiving pet snakes, making them excellent for first-time owners.
Myth #3: King snakes require advanced care.
- Most king snake species, especially the common kingsnake, have similar care requirements to corn snakes and are suitable for beginners.
Myth #4: Corn snakes aren’t “real” constrictors.
- Corn snakes are indeed constrictors, just like king snakes, and use the same hunting method to subdue prey.
Conclusion
So, which slithery buddy should join your family?
Both king snakes and corn snakes make great pets if you are ready for the snake life.
Remember, these scaly pals aren’t just for a summer; they can be your wiggly buddies for up to 20 years, and that’s longer than you have been in school.
The crucial part is choosing a snake that connects with your life. It’s like choosing your starter Pokémon, but real and hungrier for mice.
