Corn Snake vs Ball Python as Pets: Which One is Better?

For reptile enthusiasts looking to add a snake to their family, two of the most popular options are the corn snake and the ball python. But when it comes to choosing between a corn snake or ball python as a pet, how do you decide which one is right for you? This comprehensive guide compares all aspects of owning a corn snake vs a ball python to help you determine the best snake pet.

Appearance

In terms of appearance corn snakes and ball pythons have distinct looks.

Corn snakes have slender, elongated bodies with rounded heads. They come in a wide range of bright, vibrant colors and patterns including red, orange, brown, lavender, and black. Popular morphs are okeetee, lavender, albino, and black.

Ball pythons have a much thicker, heavier body and a triangular head. Their coloration tends to be shades of black, brown, and yellow with spotted or banded patterns. Common ball python morphs are albino, bumblebee, calico, panda, and spider.

So if you like slimmer, brighter snakes, the corn snake’s looks may appeal more. For a thicker-bodied snake with more subdued earth tones, a ball python has the edge aesthetically.

Size

Corn snakes reach an adult size of 2 to 4 feet long Ball pythons grow slightly larger at 3 to 5 feet in length

Both snakes are manageable sizes for first time owners The ball python is heavier bodied than the corn snake, so it will feel larger when handling despite only being a foot longer at max size.

If space is limited, a corn snake stays a more compact pet. But a ball python isn’t drastically larger either especially on the lower end of their size range.

Lifespan

Expect a long commitment when choosing either species. In captivity, corn snakes live 15 to 20 years. Ball pythons enjoy an even longer life span reaching 25 to 30 years or occasionally up to 40.

Make sure you are ready for a pet that could be with you for several decades. Ball pythons especially are one of the longest lived snakes you can own.

Temperament

Both corn snakes and ball pythons are docile, relaxed snakes that make great starter pets. They rarely bite and will tolerate regular handling. Some key differences in temperament:

• Activity Level: Corn snakes are very active and curious when out of their enclosures. Ball pythons tend to be slower moving and prefer to curl up in a hide or perch.

• Handling: Ball pythons are very sensitive to temperature changes and low humidity. Limit handling time and pay close attention to their comfort levels out of the enclosure. Corn snakes handle temperature fluctuations better for brief periods out.

• Eating: Ball pythons are notoriously picky eaters especially when stressed. Offering food can be frustrating as they frequently refuse meals for weeks or months. Corn snakes readily accept mice on a regular schedule.

So corn snakes tend to be more interactive, explorative pets. Ball pythons are less active but also require more specific care when handling.

Habitat Requirements

Both snakes are easy to keep at home, but ball pythons have more particular habitat needs being from tropical Africa originally.

Corn snakes only require a warm side around 85°F and humidity between 30-50%. Ball pythons thrive best with a hot side at 90°F and humidity never dropping below 50-60%. Ball pythons also need larger enclosures than comparably sized corn snakes.

Since ball pythons are prone to going off feed when stressed, maintaining their ideal tropical conditions is key. The extra heating, humidity, and enclosure expenses add to their care requirements.

Diet & Feeding

In terms of diet, corn snakes and ball pythons both eat mice or rats. The main differences are:

• Prey Size: Ball pythons require larger prey than corn snakes due to their thicker body size. A medium rats vs small mice for corns.

• Hunger Strikes: Ball pythons frequently fast for weeks or months which can be stressful for owners. Corns very rarely turn down meals.

• Frequency: Offer corns food every 5-7 days for juveniles, every 7-10 days for adults. Ball pythons only need fed every 2-4 weeks as adults due to slower metabolisms.

Both are carnivorous and obligate rodent eaters. But ball pythons can be tremendously frustrating with their picky eating habits. Corn snakes are reliable eaters at every stage of life.

Costs

A corn snake is the more budget friendly choice. A basic setup can be under $200 for the snake, enclosure, heat pad, and supplies.

Ball pythons average $200-$400 for the snake itself plus another $200+ for a suitable vivarium, humidity accessories, heating elements, and decor. Their particular heating and humidity needs really drive up the initial costs.

If price is a major factor, a corn snake won’t break the bank like a ball python. But ball pythons aren’t drastically more expensive either, just an extra $100-200 in most cases.

Ease of Care

Both snakes make great beginner pets, but corn snakes have the edge for ease of care. The reasons:

• Their heating and humidity needs are less strict.

• They are unfussy, eager eaters.

• More tolerant of brief handling sessions.

• Smaller enclosures sufficient for most.

• Greater room for minor husbandry mistakes.

Ball pythons are still simple pets compared to many exotic species. But they require more specific conditions and are prone to hunger strikes that complicate care. For first timers, corn snakes are just a little more forgiving.

• Vibrant colors and patterns

• Active, curious nature

• Compact size

• Eagerness to feed

• Low cost setup

• Resilience to minor care mistakes

For experienced keepers who cherish ball pythons for their:

• Distinct thick build

• Exotic morph diversity

• Long potential lifespan

• Calm demeanor

• Infrequent feeding needs

The ball python can be an extremely rewarding species. But their sensitivity, picky appetite, larger size, and tropical habitat needs give corn snakes the advantage for beginners. Whichever you choose, research the needs of each species thoroughly first. Both snakes can offer 20+ years of enjoyment when properly cared for!