The Lavender Corn Snake is a fascinating and unique reptile that has gained popularity among snake enthusiasts. Known for its distinctive coloration and manageable size, this snake is an excellent choice for both novice and experienced keepers. In this article, we will explore the characteristics, pet care guide, challenges, and price comparison of Lavender Corn Snake.
| Lavender Corn Snake Price Comparison | ||||||
| Website | Price | Shipping Price | Shipping Country | Ratings | Details | Link |
| Morph Market (2024 Lavender Stripe 66% Sunkissed Hypo Amel Caramel Corn Snake) | $300 | $65 | USA | 4.5/5 | Captive bred, excellent temperament. Breeder: Chris Nicholas Reptiles. Available for shipping across the USA. | Chris Nicholas Reptiles |
| Morph Market (2024 Lavender Stripe 66% Het Amel and Charcoal Corn Snake) | $300 | $65 | USA | 4.6/5 | Captive bred, healthy and feeding well. Breeder: CS Corns. Shipping available within the USA. | Chris Nicholas Reptiles |
| Morph Market (2024 Lavender Corn Snake) | $375 | Varies | USA | 4.7/5 | Beautiful coloring, well started on meals. Breeder: Boa Barn. Ships within the USA. | Ferrell Captives |
| Morph Market (2023 Lavender Het Scaleless Corn Snake) | $300 | $50 | USA | 4.4/5 | Young snake, feeding on pinky mice. Breeder: Breeder’s Circle. Available for shipping within the USA. | Prismatic Reptiles |
| Morph Market (2023 Lavender Corn Snake) | $350 | $50-65 | USA | 4.8/5 | Great for handling, striking lavender color. Breeder: XYZ Reptiles. Ships across the USA. | Travis Whisler Reptiles |
| Morph Market (2023 Lavender Stripe 66% Het Amel, Charcoal, Sunkissed, Hypo Corn Snake) | $400 | $60 | USA | 4.6/5 | Multiple genetic traits, well-established. Breeder: ABC Reptiles. Available for shipping within the USA. | Blue Dog Aquatics & Reptiles LLC |
| ReptMart | $135 | Calculated at checkout | US | 4.8/5 | Lavender Corn Snake, detailed care and shipping info. | ReptMart |
| Peregrine Livefoods | £88.99 | £39.95 | UK, Europe | NA | CB22 Lavender Corn Snake, includes detailed care sheet. | Peregrine Livefoods |
| Upriva Reptiles | $79.99 | Varies | US | NA | Baby Lavender Corn Snake, additional care tips available. | Upriva Reptiles |
| Big Apple Herp | $229 | Calculated at checkout | US | NA | Lavender Corn Snakes, detailed care information provided. | Big Apple Herp |
| Lavender Corn Snake Pet Care Products | |||
| Product Type | Price Range | Features | Link |
| Terrarium | $50 – $200 | Secure lid, proper ventilation, easy to clean, appropriate size (20-gallon) | Amazon – Reptile Terrarium |
| Heat Mat | $20 – $40 | Consistent heating, adjustable thermostat, suitable for glass tanks | Chewy – Zoo Med ReptiTherm |
| Thermometer/Hygrometer | $10 – $25 | Digital display, accurate readings, easy to install | Petco – Zilla Digital Thermometer |
| Substrate | $10 – $30 | Natural material, safe for snakes, easy to clean | PetSmart – Aspen Bedding |
| Water Dish | $5 – $15 | Non-porous material, easy to clean, stable base | Chewy – Exo Terra Water Dish |
| Hide Box | $10 – $25 | Secure hiding spot, natural look, easy to clean | Amazon – Reptile Hide Box |
| Feeding Tongs | $5 – $15 | Stainless steel, non-slip grip, safe distance for feeding | Chewy – Zoo Med Feeding Tongs |
| UVB Light | $20 – $50 | Provides UVB rays, promotes healthy growth, appropriate for reptiles | Petco – Zilla Slimline Tropical |
| Cleaning Supplies | $10 – $20 | Non-toxic cleaner, safe for reptiles, easy to use | PetSmart – Fluker’s Eco Clean |
| Frozen Mice | $20 – $50 (bulk) | Pre-killed, available in various sizes, safe for snakes | Rodent Pro – Frozen Mice |
| Lavender Corn Snake Scientific Classification | |
| Classification | Description |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Reptilia |
| Order | Squamata |
| Suborder | Serpentes |
| Family | Colubridae |
| Genus | Pantherophis |
| Species | Pantherophis guttatus |
| Common Name | Lavender Corn Snake |
| Lavender Corn Snake Characteristics | |
| Characteristic | Description |
| Scientific Name | Pantherophis guttatus |
| Common Name | Lavender Corn Snake |
| Morph | Lavender (genetic mutation causing unique coloration) |
| Color | Pastel lavender with gray and pink undertones, iridescent sheen on scales, checkered belly pattern |
| Size | Adult size ranges from 3 to 5 feet in length |
| Weight | Approximately 1.1 to 2.2 pounds (500 to 1000 grams) depending on age and sex |
| Lifespan | 15 to 20 years in captivity with proper care |
| Temperament | Docile, friendly, and easy to handle |
| Activity Level | Active and curious, often seen exploring their enclosure |
| Diet | Carnivorous, primarily feeding on appropriately sized rodents (e.g., mice) |
| Habitat | Requires a terrarium with secure lid, proper ventilation, and appropriate substrate |
| Temperature | Warm side: ~85°F; Cool side: ~75°F; Night: ~70°F |
| Humidity | 40-60% humidity, with occasional misting and a water dish |
| Shedding | Regular shedding, with increased humidity aiding the process |
| Breeding | Breeding season typically in spring; eggs incubate at 82-85°F, hatch in 55-60 days |
| Health Issues | Prone to respiratory infections, mites, and shedding difficulties if not properly cared for |
| Handling | Gentle and supportive handling recommended; avoid handling during or right after feeding |
| Enrichment | Environmental enrichment with branches, hides, and different textures for stimulation |
| Escape Risk | Known escape artists; secure enclosure is essential |
| Origin | North America, particularly the southeastern United States |
Price Comparison of Ball Pythons will help you decide the best option based on your budget and preferences.
Characteristics of Lavender Corn Snake
Appearance
The Lavender Corn Snake, a variation of the popular Corn Snake, is celebrated for its striking lavender hue. This morph exhibits a pastel lavender color with varying degrees of gray and pink undertones. Its scales often have a subtle iridescent sheen, adding to its visual appeal. The belly is typically checkered with white and gray, creating a beautiful contrast with its overall body color.
Size and Lifespan
Adult Lavender Corn Snakes generally grow to a length of 3 to 5 feet. They are slender and agile, making them easy to handle. With proper care, these snakes can live up to 15-20 years in captivity, offering a long-term companionship for their owners.
Temperament
Lavender Corn Snakes are known for their docile and friendly nature. They are relatively easy to handle, which makes them suitable for beginners. These snakes are also curious and active, often exploring their enclosure and showing interest in their surroundings.
Pet Care Guide
Housing
Terrarium Size:
A 20-gallon terrarium is sufficient for a juvenile Lavender Corn Snake. As the snake grows, upgrading to a 40-gallon terrarium is recommended to provide ample space for movement.
Substrate:
Aspen bedding is a popular choice for Lavender Corn Snakes. It is safe, easy to clean, and allows the snake to burrow. Avoid using cedar or pine substrates, as they can be harmful to reptiles.
Temperature and Humidity:
Maintaining the right temperature gradient is critical. The enclosure’s heated side should be approximately 85°F, while the cool side should be around 75°F. At night, temperatures can dip to the low 70s. Humidity levels should be kept between 40 and 60%. A hygrometer can assist keep track of these levels.
Lighting:
Lavender Corn Snakes do not require UVB illumination, however having a natural day-night cycle with a consistent light is preferable. Ensure that the enclosure has a photoperiod of 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness.
Feeding
Lavender Corn Snakes are carnivorous and primarily feed on appropriately sized rodents. Juveniles should be fed once every 5-7 days, while adults can be fed every 7-10 days. Prey items should be no larger than the widest part of the snake’s body. Offering pre-killed or frozen-thawed mice is safer and more convenient than live feeding.
Hydration
Always provide a shallow water dish with fresh water. The water dish should be large enough for the snake to soak in but not too deep to prevent drowning. Change the water regularly to maintain cleanliness.
Handling
When handling a Lavender Corn Snake, it’s important to be gentle and support its body. Start with short handling sessions and gradually increase the duration as the snake becomes accustomed to being handled. Avoid handling during or right after feeding to prevent regurgitation.
Challenges of Keeping a Lavender Corn Snake
Health Issues
Lavender Corn Snakes are generally hardy, but they can be prone to certain health issues if not properly cared for. Common problems include respiratory infections, mites, and shedding difficulties. Regular veterinary check-ups and maintaining proper husbandry practices can help prevent these issues.
Shedding
Like all snakes, Lavender Corn Snakes shed their skin periodically. Providing a humid hide and ensuring proper humidity levels can aid in a successful shed. If the snake has difficulty shedding, soaking it in lukewarm water can help loosen the retained skin.
Escape Artists
Corn snakes, notably the Lavender variant, are recognised for their ability to escape. Make sure the enclosure has a sturdy cover and no openings through which the snake may escape. Regularly check for potential escape routes and make any required changes.
Feeding Difficulties
Sometimes a Lavender Corn Snake will refuse to eat. This might be caused to stress, an incorrect temperature, or shedding. If the snake persistently refuses to eat, see a veterinarian to rule out any underlying health concerns.
Enrichment and Stimulation
Environmental Enrichment
Providing environmental enrichment is essential for the mental and physical well-being of a Lavender Corn Snake. This can include adding branches, hides, and different textures to the enclosure. These elements encourage natural behaviors like climbing, burrowing, and exploring.
Interaction
While Lavender Corn Snakes do not require social interaction like mammals, regular handling can help them stay accustomed to human contact. Handling sessions also provide physical exercise and mental stimulation.
Seasonal Changes
Mimicking seasonal changes can enhance the snake’s well-being. Adjusting the light cycle and temperature to reflect natural seasonal variations can stimulate breeding behavior and improve overall health. During winter, slightly lower the temperatures and reduce the photoperiod to mimic a natural environment.
Breeding Lavender Corn Snakes
Breeding Season
Lavender Corn Snakes typically breed in the spring. To encourage breeding, provide a cooling period during the winter months. Gradually reduce the temperature to around 60°F for 6-8 weeks before returning to normal conditions.
Mating
Introduce the male to the female’s enclosure during the breeding season. Monitor them closely to ensure they are compatible and show signs of mating behavior. Successful copulation is usually followed by the female laying eggs within 30-45 days.
Incubation
Eggs should be incubated in a separate container with a moist substrate, such as vermiculite. Maintain the temperature around 82-85°F and ensure high humidity. Eggs typically hatch within 55-60 days.
Hatchlings
Hatchlings should be housed separately in small enclosures. Provide proper heating, humidity, and hiding spots. Start feeding them small pinky mice after their first shed, usually within 7-10 days of hatching.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How Much is a Lavender Corn Snake?
Lavender Corn Snakes are neither amelanistic nor anerythristic. They are a unique morph created through selective breeding to exhibit a pastel lavender color with gray and pink undertones. This coloration results from a combination of genes, including the hypo (reduced melanin) and dilute (reduces pigment intensity) genes.
2. Are Lavender Corn Snakes Poisonous?
Lavender Corn Snakes are not poisonous. They are non-venomous constrictors, meaning they subdue their prey by wrapping around it and applying pressure until the prey can no longer breathe. This makes them safe pets as they do not pose a venomous threat to humans.
3. Are Lavender Corn Snakes Amelanistic or Anerythristic?
Lavender Corn Snakes are neither amelanistic nor anerythristic. They are a unique morph created through selective breeding to exhibit a pastel lavender color with gray and pink undertones. This coloration results from a combination of genes, including the hypo (reduced melanin) and dilute (reduces pigment intensity) genes.
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