Ghost tessera corn snakes are a beautiful and popular morph of corn snakes. They are relatively easy to care for and make great pets. Here is a care guide tailored to keeping them in the UK:
 
Enclosure
    •    Size:
    •    Hatchlings: Minimum 20-gallon tank (or equivalent in space).
    •    Adults: 3–4 ft (90–120 cm) long vivarium.
    •    A long and shallow enclosure is ideal as they are terrestrial.
    •    Material: Glass or wooden vivariums with good ventilation.
    •    Lid: Secure and escape-proof (corn snakes are excellent escape artists).
 
Temperature
    •    Basking Spot: 28–30°C (82–86°F).
    •    Cool End: 22–24°C (71–75°F).
    •    Night Temperature: No lower than 20°C (68°F).
    •    Heat Source: Use a heat mat or ceramic heat emitter with a thermostat to prevent overheating.
    •    Monitoring: Use accurate thermometers on both the warm and cool sides.
 
Lighting
    •    Not strictly required, but a light cycle (12 hours light, 12 hours dark) can help regulate their behaviour. LED or low UVB lighting (e.g., 2-5%) is optional and can enhance natural colours.
 
Substrate
    •    Options:
    •    Aspen shavings (soft, safe, and allows burrowing).
    •    Lignocel or reptile-safe soil.
    •    Paper towels (for hatchlings or easy cleaning).
    •    Keep substrate dry to prevent scale rot.
 
Hides
    •    Provide at least two hides:
    •    One on the warm side.
    •    One on the cool side.
    •    Ensure they are snug and provide security.
 
Humidity
    •    Optimal range: 40–50%.
    •    Increase to 60–70% during shedding by misting lightly.
    •    Use a hygrometer to monitor.
 
Water
    •    Always provide a shallow water dish with fresh, clean water.
    •    Ensure the dish is large enough for soaking, especially during shedding.
 
Feeding
    •    Diet: Defrosted frozen rodents (e.g., pinkies for hatchlings, moving up to adult mice as the snake grows).
    •    Frequency:
    •    Hatchlings: Every 5–7 days.
    •    Juveniles: Every 7–10 days.
    •    Adults: Every 10–14 days.
    •    Ensure prey size is about 1.5 times the width of the snake’s body.
 
Handling
    •    Handle regularly (2–3 times a week) to maintain tameness, but avoid handling:
    •    24–48 hours after feeding (to prevent regurgitation).
    •    During shedding (as they may feel stressed).
 
Shedding
    •    Ensure the snake has a rough surface or décor (e.g., a branch) to assist in shedding.
    •    Provide humidity if shedding issues occur.
 
Décor
    •    Add branches, artificial plants, or climbing structures for enrichment.
    •    Ensure all items are secure to avoid injury.
 
Health Checks
    •    Monitor for signs of illness:
    •    Wheezing or clicking (respiratory infection).
    •    Persistent refusal to eat.
    •    Retained shed skin.
    •    Lethargy or weight loss.
    •    Have access to a reptile vet for emergencies.
 
Lifespan
    •    With proper care, corn snakes can live 15–20 years.
 
By following these guidelines, your ghost tessera corn snake should thrive and be a fascinating and rewarding pet!