If you are interested in buying a corn snake, do some research on care and housing requirements. Ask the breeder or seller how large the snake will become as an adult and get the proper size tank. Before buying a corn snake, find a reputable breeder or pet store with knowledgeable staff to answer your questions. Consider the location where you will place the tank before buying a corn snake, particularly if you have other pets, as some varieties of these snakes can grow to be quite large. It's also a good idea to buy a snake that is used to being handled.
Pet reptiles have specific requirements for housing and care, which is why you should read all you can on where to purchase a corn snake and how to care for and keep your pet healthy. Before buying a corn snake, consider how much space you have to place the vivarium or tank. It must be large enough to accommodate the snake at full adult size.
Although it is generally not recommended, if you decide to house two snakes in the same tank, you'll need to consider an even larger vivarium. Placing two male corn snakes together is not a good idea, as they could become aggressive. Unless you're interested in breeding, avoid placing a male and female together. If you don't have the room for a large tank, purchasing one snake is your best option. Understand that your snake will continue growing for several years.
Another tip for buying a corn snake is to choose a snake that is accustomed to being handled. If you select a wild caught corn snake, you may have a more difficult time getting the snake to accept being handled by you. Taming a wild snake can take time and patience, so if you are not up to it, buy one that is already tame and used to human contact.
Before buying a corn snake, consider all of the accessories you may need. A hiding box or small hollow log can be purchased at the pet store, or you can make your own snake hiding shelter from cardboard. You'll also need a proper tank, preferably one with a locking lid. There should be some type of latch to secure the top of the screen cover, or your snake could easily escape. All snakes are excellent at hiding, and recapturing an escaped corn snake could be a cumbersome task.