[Amel Tessera Corn Snake cb24
Delivery Charge only £25
The Amel Tessera corn snake is a selectively bred morph of the corn snake (Pantherophis guttatus), featuring both amelanism (lack of black pigment) and the tessera pattern (striped with a broken, intricate pattern on the sides). Their care is similar to that of standard corn snakes. Here’s a detailed guide:
Enclosure & Habitat
• Tank Size:
• Hatchlings: 10–20 gallons
• Juveniles: 20–30 gallons
• Adults: 40+ gallons
• Substrate: Aspen shavings, cypress mulch, or paper towels (avoid pine or cedar).
• Hides: One on the warm side and one on the cool side. A humid hide is beneficial for shedding.
• Climbing & Enrichment: Branches, cork bark, and artificial plants encourage natural behaviors.
Temperature & Humidity
• Warm Side: 85°F (29°C)
• Cool Side: 75°F (24°C)
• Night Temperature: No lower than 70°F (21°C)
• Heating: Use an under-tank heating pad or heat mat with a thermostat. Avoid heat lamps unless necessary.
• Humidity: 40–60%. Slightly higher during shedding. Mist lightly if needed.
Lighting
• Corn snakes don’t require UVB, but a low-level (5%) UVB light can be beneficial for health.
• Provide a natural day-night cycle (12 hours of light, 12 hours of darkness).
Diet & Feeding
• Food: Frozen-thawed mice (live feeding is risky and unnecessary).
• Schedule:
• Hatchlings: Every 5–7 days
• Juveniles: Every 7 days
• Adults: Every 10–14 days
• Prey Size: Should be about the same width as the snake’s thickest part.
Handling & Temperament
• Amel Tessera corn snakes are generally docile and tolerate handling well.
• Wait at least 48 hours after feeding before handling to avoid regurgitation.
• Support the body and move slowly to avoid startling the snake.
Shedding
• Young snakes shed more frequently than adults.
• Provide a humid hide or mist lightly if shedding problems occur.
• A full, clean shed is a sign of good health.
Cleaning & Maintenance
• Spot-clean daily (remove waste).
• Deep clean the enclosure every 4–6 weeks.
• Replace substrate regularly to prevent bacterial growth.
Health Concerns
• Mouth Rot (Infectious Stomatitis): Swollen or pus-filled mouth.
• Respiratory Infections: Wheezing, bubbling at the mouth, open-mouth breathing.
• Mites: Tiny black/red dots on the snake or in the water dish.
• Shedding Issues: Incomplete sheds, especially around the eyes or tail.
If you notice any of these issues, consult a reptile vet.
Would you like help with enclosure setup or diet recommendations?
Care sheet