Mary Allen
Introduction: Understanding the Corn Snake
Corn snakes are one of the most popular snake species in the pet trade. They are widely known for their beautiful patterns and gentle temperament, making them a favorite among reptile enthusiasts. Corn snakes are native to the United States and are commonly found in the southeastern part of the country. They are also referred to as red rat snakes due to their striking red and orange coloration.
Evolutionary History: How Corn Snakes Came to Be
Corn snakes are part of the Colubridae family, which is one of the largest snake families in the world. The family dates back to the Paleocene era, which is approximately 66 million years ago. The evolutionary history of corn snakes dates back to the Miocene era, which is around 23 million years ago. It is believed that corn snakes originated in North America and evolved from a common ancestor with other rat snakes. Over time, they developed unique physical characteristics and behaviors that allowed them to survive in their environments.