When we think about pets, animals like dogs, cats, or even birds usually come to mind—creatures that seem to enjoy our company, seek out our attention, and may even wag a tail or purr to show they like being around us. But what about snakes? Corn snakes, in particular, are among the most popular reptiles kept as pets. They’re known for their striking colors, manageable size, and docile nature. But here’s the big question: Do corn snakes actually like being picked up?
The short answer is a bit complicated. Unlike dogs or cats, snakes don’t express affection in ways we easily recognize, and they aren’t wired to seek out human contact the way mammals are. But with the right approach and handling techniques, corn snakes can become comfortable with being picked up, and some may even seem to tolerate, or dare we say, “enjoy” it in their own way.
Let’s dive into the fascinating world of corn snakes and unravel whether they like being picked up—or at least, if they don’t mind it!
Understanding Corn Snakes’ Nature
Before we get into whether corn snakes like being picked up, it’s essential to understand their nature. Corn snakes (scientific name: Pantherophis guttatus) are non-venomous, constrictor snakes native to North America. They are often found in cornfields—hence the name—where they feed on rodents and other small prey.
Here’s what makes corn snakes great pets:
Temperament: They are generally calm and non-aggressive. Corn snakes rarely bite, especially when they’re accustomed to human interaction.
Size: They grow to a manageable length, usually between 3 to 5 feet. Unlike some larger species, corn snakes don’t require massive enclosures or an overwhelming amount of care.
Ease of Care: Corn snakes are hardy reptiles. They don’t need overly complicated living environments and are relatively easy to care for compared to some more exotic snake species.
But despite these wonderful qualities, it’s essential to remember that corn snakes are still wild animals at heart. They don’t have the same social structures or desires for companionship as mammals do. In the wild, snakes are solitary creatures, meaning they don’t form social bonds with others, not even with their own kind, unless it’s mating season.
So, can a creature that doesn’t crave social interaction enjoy being handled by humans? Let’s explore that question.
Do Corn Snakes “Like” Anything?
When we talk about what pets “like,” we often apply human feelings and behaviors to animals—a term called anthropomorphism. It’s something we all do because it helps us connect with our pets emotionally. But snakes don’t experience emotions the way mammals do. They don’t “like” or “dislike” things the way we understand those concepts.
Instead, snakes, including corn snakes, respond to stimuli in their environment. They may feel stressed, comfortable, scared, curious, or defensive. When we ask, “Do corn snakes like being picked up?” what we’re really asking is, “Do corn snakes feel comfortable being handled?”
Signs of Stress in Corn Snakes
Before picking up your corn snake, it’s important to know the signs of stress. Like any other animal, corn snakes have their own ways of telling you they’re uncomfortable, and it’s crucial to recognize these signals.
Some signs of stress in a corn snake include:
Hissing: A hiss is a classic warning signal in the snake world. If your corn snake hisses when you approach or try to handle it, that’s a clear sign they’re feeling defensive or scared.
Coiling into an ‘S’ Shape: Corn snakes coil their bodies into an ‘S’ shape when they feel threatened or are preparing to strike. This posture is a defensive mechanism.
Rapid Movements or Trying to Escape: If your corn snake is frantically trying to escape from your hands, that’s a pretty strong indication they’re uncomfortable.
Musking: Musking is a defensive behavior where the snake releases a foul-smelling substance to deter predators. If your snake does this when you try to pick them up, it’s safe to say they’re not feeling great about the interaction.
Refusing to Eat: If a snake is consistently stressed, it might go off its food. This could be due to improper handling or poor environmental conditions, such as incorrect temperatures or insufficient hiding spots.
Being able to identify these behaviors is crucial. If your snake shows any of these signs, it’s best to give them some space and try again later when they’re calmer.
How to Handle Your Corn Snake Properly
Corn snakes can become quite used to handling, and with time and patience, they may even seem to “enjoy” being held (or at least tolerate it comfortably). To get your snake to this point, it’s all about building trust. Handling them the right way can prevent stress and make the experience pleasant for both of you.
Here are some tips for handling your corn snake properly:
Let Them Settle In
Before you start handling your new corn snake, give them time to adjust to their new environment. Snakes can feel insecure in unfamiliar surroundings, and it may take a few days to weeks for them to settle in. During this time, minimize handling and let them explore their new habitat undisturbed.
Approach Gently
When picking up your snake, approach them calmly and from the side, not from above. In the wild, predators like birds often attack from above, so coming down on a snake from above can trigger a fear response. Use slow, gentle movements to avoid startling them.
Support Their Body
Once your snake is comfortable with your presence, gently scoop them up from below. Always support their body, especially the middle section, to make them feel secure. Avoid grabbing them by the tail or restricting their head, as this can cause them to panic.
Limit Handling Sessions
Start with short handling sessions, maybe five to ten minutes at a time. As your snake becomes more comfortable, you can gradually increase the time. However, even if your snake seems okay with being held, it’s a good idea to limit handling to 20-30 minutes per session. Snakes don’t need constant handling, and long sessions can cause unnecessary stress.
Handle When Calm
Pick up your corn snake when they are calm and relaxed. Avoid handling them right after feeding (to prevent regurgitation) or when they are in the middle of shedding, as they can be more sensitive during these times.
Can Corn Snakes Learn to Enjoy Being Handled?
While corn snakes don’t seek out affection in the way dogs or cats do, they can learn to associate being picked up with a neutral or even positive experience. The more frequently and properly you handle them, the more comfortable they’ll become with it.
In fact, many corn snake owners report that their snakes seem to recognize them and don’t mind being held. Some snakes will calmly wrap themselves around their owner’s arm or explore their surroundings while being held. This behavior isn’t necessarily a sign of affection, but it does indicate that the snake feels secure.
See Also: Do Corn Snakes Like Sunlight?
Corn snakes can become accustomed to handling because, in captivity, they learn that being picked up doesn’t pose a threat. In the wild, a snake’s primary concern is survival. But in your home, they don’t have predators to worry about, and if they’re well cared for, they’ll feel secure. Over time, this leads to trust, and handling becomes part of their routine.
Benefits of Handling Your Corn Snake
While your corn snake may not “enjoy” being held in the way a dog might enjoy a belly rub, there are still benefits to handling your snake regularly. These benefits include:
Trust Building
Regular, gentle handling helps build trust between you and your corn snake. The more familiar they are with your touch and scent, the less likely they are to become stressed when picked up.
Health Monitoring
When you handle your snake regularly, you’ll be able to monitor their health more closely. You can check for signs of illness, such as lumps, skin issues, or problems with shedding. A snake that is handled often is also easier to examine during vet visits.
Stimulation
While snakes don’t need mental stimulation in the same way that mammals do, handling provides some variety in their environment. It’s a break from their usual routine of lounging in their enclosure, and it gives them a chance to explore new textures and scents in a controlled, safe way.
So, Do Corn Snakes Like Being Picked Up?
Now that we’ve covered all the details, let’s return to the original question: Do corn snakes like being picked up?
The answer is: Not in the way we might think. Corn snakes don’t have the emotional capacity to “like” or “dislike” things in the way humans or even mammals do. However, they can learn to tolerate handling and may even become quite comfortable with it, especially if they’re handled regularly and gently. Over time, many corn snakes seem to enjoy the opportunity to explore new environments and climb on their owners.
In short, while they may never “like” being held in the affectionate sense, a well-handled corn snake can become perfectly content with the experience. And who knows? Your corn snake might even come to associate your hand as a non-threatening, comfortable place to rest.
Conclusion
Corn snakes are fascinating creatures that can make wonderful, low-maintenance pets. While they might not have the same social or emotional needs as mammals, they are capable of becoming accustomed to handling, and with time, many corn snakes grow to tolerate, if not enjoy being picked up.
Remember, patience and gentle handling are key. Every snake is unique, and some may take longer than others to adjust. Always respect their boundaries and monitor for signs of stress. With care and attention, you can develop a trusting bond with your corn snake, allowing for enjoyable interactions that both you and your snake can appreciate. So go ahead, handle your corn snake—but do it with respect and care, and you might just find a new way to connect with this beautiful reptile!
Related Topics:
