Snakes are quickly becoming popular pets in the U.S. However, when selecting your first snake, there are many options, some better than others. As a starter snake, which is better, ball pythons or corn snakes?
Ball pythons and corn snakes have excellent temperaments and make wonderful starter pets. Ball pythons are wider, slightly shorter, and live longer than corn snakes. Corn snakes are cheaper to purchase than ball pythons and appreciate being handled more.
The ball python and corn snake are considered some of the best snakes to start with as a pet owner. Despite being remarkably similar in behavior, there are some key differences to be aware of. This article will cover the main differences between ball pythons and corn snakes for pet owners.
Main Differences Between Ball Pythons and Corn Snakes
The ball python and corn snake have similar appearances, diets, and temperaments. However, there are subtle differences to be aware of when selecting either as a pet.
Below are the main differences between each snake:
| Quality | Ball Python | Corn Snake |
| Coloration | White, brown, or grey with large splotches throughout their coat | Red, yellow, or brown with large splotches throughout their coat |
| Lifespan | 20-30 Years in captivity | 20-25 Years in captivity |
| Size | 3-4 Feet (36-48 inches) long~5 lbs (2.27 kg) | 4-6 Feet (48-72 inches) long~2 lbs (0.91 kg) |
| Range | Western and Central Africa | Southeastern and Eastern United States |
| Habitat | Savannahs and grasslands | Forests, grasslands, hills |
| Diet | Small rodents and birds | Small rodents, reptiles, amphibians and bird eggs |
| Temperament | Docile | Docile |
| Lethalness | Non-lethal | Non-lethal |
Let’s evaluate each difference in greater detail.
Coloration
Both snakes have very long bodies with large splotches through their coats. These splotches are common among constricting snakes because it helps them camouflage with their environment, remaining hidden.
Despite the similarities in appearance, ball pythons are typically neutral colors, such as blacks, greys, browns, and whites. Corn snakes generally show brighter and warmer colors, such as reds, oranges, and yellows.
Lifespan
One of the appeals of both snakes is that they live multiple decades in captivity. Ball pythons can live up to 30 years, and most corn snakes will live 20+ years. In general, ball pythons live longer than corn snakes.
One thing to remember is that snakes are indeterminate growers, meaning they continue shedding their skin and growing until they pass. Snakes that live longer will continue to grow and may require additional tanks and habitats as they get older.
Size
Both snakes are considered relatively large and can grow over four feet long. Ball pythons generally don’t grow longer than four feet (48 inches), but corn snakes can reach 4-6 feet (48-72 inches) in some situations.
Despite being shorter, ball pythons will always weigh more than corn snakes of the same length and are much wider than their counterparts.
Range
One of the key differences between these two snakes is that they are from two entirely different continents. Ball pythons exist along the entirety of forests and savannahs below the Sahara desert in Africa (sub-Sahara). This range extends from the western African coast all the way to the central African Congo.
Alternatively, corn snakes frequent the forests of the eastern coast down to the southeast peninsula of the United States.
Despite the different ranges these snakes frequent, they have relatively similar habitats.
Habitat
As constrictors, both snakes are avid climbers and burrowers that stop at nothing to get their prey. They typically inhabit forests or lightly wooded areas.
In addition to forests, these snakes inhabit fields or savannahs with lots of flat land and sparse trees. They also aren’t afraid of elevated areas such as hills and cliffs, although they don’t go very high in altitude.
Overall, these habitats offer the best living conditions and prey animals for each snake.
Diet
Like other constrictors, ball pythons and corn snakes prefer small animals that they can suffocate and consume.
Each snake generally has the following prey or diet:
- Small birds
- Bird eggs
- Rodents
Additionally, corn snakes are known for consuming small amphibians and reptiles.
When feeding either snake, the best food is thawed frozen mice, approximately the size of the width of the snake. I recommend using thawed mice over live prey, as live mice can injure your snake during the feeding process.
Temperament
The greatest attribute of either snake is its temperament, which ranges from docile to friendly. While it’s possible for a new snake to become agitated and fearful of you, regular contact with the snake during the first two weeks will ease this transition.
Overall, each snake is very friendly, although corn snakes are more appreciative of handling than pythons.
Lethalness
Both snakes are non-lethal and pose no threats to humans. Despite being large constrictors, humans are far too large for them to consider us a food source.
However, new snakes can become agitated by new environments and people and may bite in some situations. Their bites are non-venomous and non-lethal.
Ball Python or Corn Snake: Which Is a Better Pet?
It’s no secret that ball pythons and corn snakes make great starter snakes. In fact, AZ Animals has them listed as the top two snakes to own, with ball pythons narrowly taking the first place.
The truth is that both these snakes are excellent for beginners and would suit most snake owners perfectly well. This similarity makes it difficult to decide which to choose. I will evaluate the advantages of each snake and present reasons why you would choose one over the other.
Pros of Owning a Ball Python
As the most popular snake in the world, it’s difficult not to appreciate ball pythons. These snakes have excellent temperaments, easy maintenance, and beautiful coats that come in a variety of morphs.
However, do note that in terms of temperament, ball pythons are shyer and more likely to get aggressive than corn snakes. While it’s possible for aggression, it’s still rare after the snake has become accustomed to its owner.
Ball pythons are relatively cost-effective, ranging from $60-100 for standard snakes. Carefully consider whether you want a rare morph, as some of these variations can cost hundreds or thousands to own.
These snakes grow much broader and heavier than corn snakes and have a tropical coat. Additionally, these snakes live significantly longer than corn snakes, allowing you decades of personal time with your snake. Consider the ball python if you prefer a larger, older snake.
Pros of Owning a Corn Snake
Corn snakes sport a more western coat, come in a brighter variety of colors, are slightly cheaper, and have a better temperament than ball pythons. Overall, these snakes have about the same maintenance and dietary requirements as their contemporaries.
Most corn snakes will cost about $20-$50, with their morphs not exceeding $100-200. With low maintenance and feeding costs, this makes them one of the most economical snakes to purchase and own.
While they aren’t as thick as pythons nor live as long, they grow longer and have gorgeous coats in various colors to choose from.
Final Thoughts
With snakes on the rise as popular pets, many are considering becoming first-time snake owners. However, with so many options available, it’s challenging to determine which snake is better for beginners.
The corn snake and the ball python are the two most popular snakes in the world. Ball pythons grow wider and older and have more valuable morphs and easy maintenance.
Corn snakes have a slightly better temperament, grow longer, are cheaper to purchase, and require little dietary maintenance.