Where Do Corn Snakes Live? 5 States You're Most Likely to Encounter Them

If you happen to find yourself walking through the southern U.S., say, in a state like Florida, don’t think you came across a pot of gold if you see the Corn Snake (Pantherophis guttatus) curled up, taking a mid-afternoon nap. But where do Corn Snakes live, and in which states are you more likely to find them?

With their golden scales making up most of their bodies with black highlights, these gorgeous reptiles are also named Rat Snakes. Both names, “Corn Snake” and “Rat Snake,” do not reflect the beauty of this particular species. With its golden hue, the corn snake looks like a ribbon of gold—especially the juveniles.

What Makes the Corn Snake Unique?

The older it gets, the more its black highlights and darker diamonds appear. When viewed from its belly, the Corn Snake looks exactly like a black and white checkerboard. But, with this animal, if you have it on its back, you’re likely playing a dangerous game of chess.

Fun fact: it has this unique underbelly design to confuse predators that may be underneath them, while their bodies resemble corn or maize, according to The Smithsonian National Zoo.

What Are the Top States Where Corn Snakes Live?

1. New Jersey

Yes. Although the corn snake does like it a bit more humid and tropical, it does enjoy wooded groves and rocky terrain, which New Jersey does have plenty of, especially when you get “down the shore,” as the locals say.

Although they are rarer in the state of New Jersey, they live in the state’s ‘Pine Barrens.’ This area is perfect for the Corn Snake, as they can burrow in logs, climb the trees, and enjoy sandy ground. Unfortunately, the Corn Snake has an endangered status in New Jersey due to the loss of habitat and collection for the pet trade.

2. Louisiana

Yes, the home of the Big Easy. Although the corn snake is not going there for Mardi Gras, it enjoys the state’s swamps and low-land areas at the mouth of the Mississippi River. Because it does enjoy feeding on small rodents, you’ll easily find it where rats and mice live. The Corn Snake population in Louisiana is currently stable.

3. Maryland

Not to enjoy the state’s crab cakes; it’s secretive and rarely makes itself seen, but populates the state’s hardwood forests with loose soil. Here, it lives underground but enjoys trees.

4. Kentucky

The corn snake enjoys the Bluegrass state, mostly in two areas, specifically Mammoth Cave National Park and the Red River Gorge Geologic Area. In this state, the Corn Snake is a “Species of Greatest Conservation Need,” according to the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources. Why though?

Mainly to the pet trade, even though they don’t make great pets since they climb and will escape. If you have one as a pet, be careful; these guys are constrictors. Quick, where’s the cat?

5. Florida

Just like our nation’s retiree population, the Corn Snake loves the Sunshine State. Here, look out for downed palm fronds since our slithery friend likes to curl up and take a nap there. Corn Snakes are not aggressive or non-venomous; however, they will defend themselves by biting when they back into a corner. This isn’t how they kill their prey, however. They are constrictors. Bonus: the Corn Snake lives in the Florida Keys.

The Corn Snake lives in many states in the Southeastern United States. Wherever you are, however, if it bites you, you’re in no danger. Just make a note as to where you found it, and wash the bite with soap and water. You also may need to triple-check that what bit you was a Corn Snake and not a venomous cousin.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © bugphai/iStock via Getty Images