Best Bedding For A Red Corn Snake

When it comes to providing a comfortable and healthy environment for your red corn snake, choosing the right bedding is crucial. Bedding not only provides a substrate for your snake to move around on but also helps regulate humidity, temperature, and hygiene in the enclosure. Here are some essential aspects to consider when selecting the best bedding for your red corn snake:

Material Type

Choose bedding materials that are absorbent, easy to clean, and provide good drainage. Avoid using materials that retain moisture, as they can lead to bacterial growth and health issues for your snake. Some suitable options include:

Aspen shavings: These are popular for snakes as they are absorbent, provide good insulation, and are relatively inexpensive.
Shredded paper towels: Paper towels are soft and absorbent, making them suitable for hatchlings or snakes with sensitive skin.
Cypress mulch: Cypress mulch has a natural resistance to mold and bacteria, making it a good choice for humidity-loving snakes like corn snakes.

Particle Size

The particle size of the bedding should be appropriate for the size of your snake. Smaller snakes may prefer finer substrates like shredded paper towels, while larger snakes can tolerate larger particles like aspen shavings.

Depth

Provide a bedding depth of 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) to allow your snake to burrow and hide. Deeper bedding also helps absorb moisture and provides insulation.

Humidity

Corn snakes prefer a humidity level of around 50-60%. Some bedding materials, such as cypress mulch, can help maintain humidity. Additionally, you may need to use a humidifier to ensure adequate moisture levels in the enclosure.

Hygiene

Regularly clean the bedding to prevent bacterial growth and parasites. Spot clean any soiled areas and completely replace the bedding every 1-2 weeks, or more often if necessary.

Other Considerations

Avoid using sand or gravel as bedding, as these can irritate your snake's skin and eyes.
Consider using a heat mat under the bedding to provide additional warmth for your snake.
Monitor your snake's behavior and adjust the bedding type or frequency of cleaning if you notice any signs of discomfort or health issues.

By choosing the right bedding and maintaining proper hygiene, you can provide a comfortable and healthy environment for your red corn snake, promoting its well-being and longevity.