In the world of exotic pet ownership, reptiles have become increasingly popular choices. Corn snakes and bearded dragons are two species that are particularly well-loved by many. These two reptiles are often compared against each other due to the fact that they have a few similarities.
Both species are fairly easy to care for, making them ideal starter reptile pets. However, there are also a few key differences between the two that you should consider before making a choice.
In this article, we’ll be exploring the various pros and cons of owning a corn snake versus a bearded dragon. We’ll also be looking at the different care requirements and the behaviors of each of these reptiles so that you can make an informed decision about which species is best for you and your lifestyle.
What Are the Similarities Between Corn Snake and Bearded Dragon?
When it comes to size, both the Corn Snake and the Bearded Dragon are of comparable size, with the Corn Snake being slightly longer than the Bearded Dragon. In terms of color, both are vibrant and bold, featuring striking patterns that make them both attractive to potential owners.
Lastly, their lifespan is roughly the same, with both species living for an average of 10-15 years.
Size
To put it simply, size is one of the most noticeable similarities between corn snakes and bearded dragons. Both species can reach impressive lengths, with corn snakes usually reaching an average of between 3 to 6 feet long, and bearded dragons growing up to 2 feet in length. In terms of girth, bearded dragons tend to be much thicker than corn snakes.
The following are some of the major similarities in size between the two species:
- Length:
- Corn Snakes: 3-6 feet
- Bearded Dragons: Up to 2 feet
- Girth:
- Corn Snakes: Generally thinner than bearded dragons
- Bearded Dragons: Generally thicker than corn snakes
- Weight:
- Corn Snakes: Generally lighter than bearded dragons
- Bearded Dragons: Generally heavier than corn snakes
Overall, both corn snakes and bearded dragons can grow to an impressive size, with the bearded dragons typically being heavier and thicker than the corn snakes.
Color
As we explore the similarities between corn snakes and bearded dragons, let’s focus on one of their most notable physical traits: color. While there is an abundance of color variations among both species, they share several common hues.
- Bearded Dragons
- Generally have a pale yellow to orange base, with dark brown or black stripes and spots.
- Can have various shades of blue and green.
- Corn Snakes
- Generally have an orange or yellow base color.
- Patterns may be black, gray, brown, and white, with bright red and orange scales.
As you can see, both of these species share similar colors and shades, allowing them to blend in with their surroundings to protect themselves from predators. This remarkable similarity in coloration is just one of the many qualities that make corn snakes and bearded dragons such wonderful animals.
Lifespan
In terms of lifespan, both the corn snake and the bearded dragon have relatively long lifespans. The average corn snake can live for up to 20 years in captivity, while the average bearded dragon can live up to 10-15 years in captivity.
- Corn Snake:
- Average Lifespan: up to 20 years in captivity
- Bearded Dragon:
- Average Lifespan: up to 10-15 years in captivity
In both cases, the lifespans of corn snakes and bearded dragons can be extended if they are given proper care and nutrition. A proper diet and clean environment are essential for keeping both species healthy and extending their lifespan.
What Are the Differences Between Corn Snake and Bearded Dragon?
When discussing the differences between corn snakes and bearded dragons, one must look at the size, temperament, and diet of each species. Corn snakes are typically smaller in size, and generally docile and easy to handle.
Bearded dragons, on the other hand, are larger and require more space, and can be more skittish than their smaller counterparts. Both species have different dietary needs, with corn snakes being primarily carnivorous, and bearded dragons omnivorous.
Size
While corn snakes and bearded dragons have many similarities, the differences between them are also worth noting. Much of this comes down to size, as corn snakes are typically much smaller than their bearded dragon counterparts.
In fact, adult corn snakes rarely exceed five feet (1.5 meters) in length, while adult bearded dragons can reach up to two feet (0.6 meters) in length.
When considering size, it’s important to note that both types of reptiles require different habitats in order to thrive. Corn snakes require a small terrarium with plenty of hiding places, while bearded dragons require a larger terrarium that offers plenty of space to roam.
Additionally, the heating and lighting needs of each species are also different. Bearded dragons need more heat and light than corn snakes, as they originate from the desert. As such, their terrarium should include a basking light and a temperature of around 95°F (35°C). In comparison, corn snakes need a temperature of around 85°F (29°C).
To summarize, the size of corn snakes and bearded dragons is one of the main differences between them. In terms of habitats, corn snakes require a small terrarium with plenty of hiding places, while bearded dragons require a larger terrarium that offers plenty of space to roam.
Additionally, the heating and lighting needs of each species are also different, with bearded dragons needing more heat and light due to their desert origins.
- Size:
- Adult corn snakes rarely exceed five feet (1.5 meters) in length
- Bearded dragons can reach up to two feet (0.6 meters) in length
- Corn snakes require a small terrarium with plenty of hiding places
- Bearded dragons require a larger terrarium that offers plenty of space to roam
- Heating and Lighting Needs:
- Bearded dragons need more heat and light than corn snakes, as they originate from the desert
- Bearded dragons should have a temperature of around 95°F (35°C)
- Corn snakes should have a temperature of around 85°F (29°C)
Temperament
While corn snakes and bearded dragons share a few similarities in size and diet, their temperaments differ greatly. Corn snakes are generally quite docile, making them ideal pets for first-time snake owners. On the other hand, bearded dragons can be quite active and can be skittish, so they may be best for experienced reptile owners.
- Corn Snakes:
- Docile
- Calm
- Typically tolerate handling
- Bearded Dragons:
- Active
- Easily startled
- May require more patience when handling
Corn snakes are quite content to curl up in a hide while their owners go about their daily activities. Bearded dragons, however, are more active during the day and may require more attention. They can be handled with some patience, but they may become scared or overstimulated with too much handling.
Diet
Moving on, one of the most distinct differences between corn snakes and bearded dragons is their diet. Corn snakes are carnivorous, while bearded dragons are omnivorous.
Corn snakes primarily feed on rodents, such as mice and rats. They can live in captivity for up to 10 years if fed properly with regular meals. Bearded dragons, on the other hand, are more omnivorous and feed on both plants and animals. Here is a breakdown of their diet:
- Animals
- Insects
- Small rodents
- Plants
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Supplements
- Vitamins
- Minerals
Bearded dragons need a balanced diet of both animals and plants, along with calcium and other vitamins and minerals to stay healthy. Proper nutrition is key for both corn snakes and bearded dragons, and owners should make sure to research the specific dietary needs of their reptiles.
Corn Snake vs Bearded Dragon: Physical Appearance
Now that we’ve established the differences between a corn snake and a bearded dragon, let’s dive into what sets them apart physically. Corn snakes are a species of rat snake which are native to North and Central America.
They typically have a reddish-brown base color with black-bordered red or orange blotches down the length of their body. While adults can measure up to four feet in length, juveniles are typically much smaller.
Bearded dragons, on the other hand, are native to Australia and, as the name suggests, they have a ‘beard’ of spikes under their chin. They can reach up to 24 inches in length and typically come in shades of orange, yellow, and brown.
While they may seem intimidating due to their spikes, bearded dragons are quite docile creatures.
Most notably, corn snakes and bearded dragons have vastly different diets. While bearded dragons are omnivores, corn snakes are strict carnivores. Bearded dragons will typically eat both plant matter as well as small insects and other invertebrates. On the other hand, corn snakes feed almost exclusively on rodents like mice and rats.
Therefore, it’s clear that corn snakes and bearded dragons have significant physical differences which make them particularly unique, as well as differences in diet which are important to consider when choosing between them.
Corn Snake vs Bearded Dragon: Behavior
Having discussed their physical appearances, it is time to dive into the behavior of Corn Snakes and Bearded Dragons. The mannerisms of these scaly creatures could not be any more different from each other. Corn Snakes have a docile and calm demeanor, making them a great choice for a pet snake.
They prefer to remain in one place, rather than actively exploring their environment, and they also tend to handle being held by their owner more calmly than other species. On the other hand, Bearded Dragons are quite the opposite, often appearing to be quite active and mischievous.
They love to explore their environment and they take great pleasure in interacting with their owners, often enjoying being held and petted. They are even known to participate in games such as hide and seek.
Corn Snake vs Bearded Dragon: Diet
While behavior is an important factor to consider when deciding between a Corn Snake and a Bearded Dragon, diet is equally important. The type of food and the frequency of consumption are key components to the health and well-being of any pet.
When it comes to the dietary needs of these two reptiles, there is a wide range of differences.
The Corn Snake is a carnivore, meaning it is essential that they are provided with a diet of mostly meat. Their diet should consist of small, pre-killed, or frozen mice, rats, or chicks. These should be fed to them no more than twice a week.
It is also important to ensure that the food is of an appropriate size for the snake, as too large of a meal can cause digestive issues.
The Bearded Dragon is an omnivore, so their diet consists of both plants and animals. They should be fed a variety of insects such as crickets, mealworms, cockroaches, as well as an occasional pinky mouse. Fruits and vegetables should also be included, such as kale, collard greens, squash, and berries. These should be fed to them on a daily basis.
When it comes to the diet of a Corn Snake and a Bearded Dragon, it is clear that there are many differences. However, both require a balanced and healthy diet in order to stay healthy and active. It is important to understand the dietary needs of each reptile in order to ensure they are provided with the best care possible.
Corn Snake vs Bearded Dragon: Enclosure
Moving on from diet, the difference in the enclosure of the corn snake and the bearded dragon is also notable. Both reptiles need an adequate living space to thrive, yet the size and setup of their enclosures vary greatly.
The corn snake is a smaller species of reptile, with adults ranging from 2-5 feet in length. As such, they need a relatively small enclosure. An enclosure for a single adult corn snake should be at least 20 gallons in size with a secure top and plenty of ventilation.
The enclosure should contain a large branch for the snake to climb and bask, as well as multiple hides, a water bowl, and substrate-like aspen shavings.
In contrast, the bearded dragon is a larger species of reptile, with adults ranging from 18-24 inches in length. As such, they need a significantly larger enclosure. An enclosure for a single adult bearded dragon should be at least 40 gallons in size with a secure top and plenty of ventilation.
The enclosure should contain multiple branches for the dragon to climb and bask, a variety of hides, a water bowl, and a substrate like sand or soil. Additionally, the enclosure should also include a UVB light to help the dragon synthesize Vitamin D3.
Each of these reptiles’ enclosures has its own unique requirements, so it is important to make sure both species are provided with the best possible environment to live in.
Corn Snake vs Bearded Dragon: Lighting
Moving on from enclosure, an important consideration when looking at Corn Snakes and Bearded Dragons is their lighting requirements. Lighting plays an integral role in a reptile’s overall health and well-being. Each reptile species has its own specific lighting needs.
Bearded Dragons require a full spectrum UVB light for 12-14 hours per day, as well as a basking lamp or spot bulb. This will help them to regulate their body temperature, as well as to process calcium and create vitamin D3. Without these proper lighting accommodations, their health and growth will be significantly impacted.
Corn Snakes, however, do not require UVB light and instead need a low-wattage heat lamp. This heat source should be placed at one end of the enclosure, and the temperature should range from 75-85°F (24-29°C).
A cool side of the enclosure should also be available for the Corn Snake to cool off. The lighting should run for 12-14 hours a day to create a natural day-night cycle.
In conclusion, both Corn Snakes and Bearded Dragons have specific lighting requirements that need to be met to ensure their overall health and well-being.
Corn Snake vs Bearded Dragon: Handling
It is clear that lighting requirements for a corn snake and a bearded dragon differ greatly. However, it is also important to consider the handling needs of each species. While both require gentle handling, they differ in their tolerance of interaction.
Bearded dragons respond positively to gentle handling, and with regular interaction, they can become quite social. They need to be handled carefully, however, as they are delicate and can become stressed easily. It is important to give them enough time to get used to their handler, as well as to not handle them too often.
Corn snakes, however, are generally more tolerant of handling, and will often enjoy it. They can be handled multiple times a day, but it is important to remember that they may become stressed if handled too roughly.
Additionally, it is important to note that corn snakes don’t typically show the same level of affection as bearded dragons do; they are more likely to be more passive and remain in their enclosure.
In conclusion, it is important to take both lighting and handling into consideration when deciding between a corn snake and a bearded dragon. While the lighting requirements of each species are vastly different, both require gentle handling, though they differ in their tolerances of interaction.
Corn Snake vs Bearded Dragon: Lifespan
The time a pet will be in your life is an important factor when selecting one. While both corn snakes and bearded dragons make excellent pets, they differ significantly in their lifespan.
The average lifespan of a corn snake is 10 to 12 years, while the average lifespan of a bearded dragon is 5 to 8 years. This can make a big difference when deciding which pet will be best for you and your family.
It’s important to note that some corn snakes can live as long as 20 years with proper care. Therefore, it’s important to do your research and be prepared to provide high-quality care for your pet in order to ensure a long and happy life.
When it comes to lifespan, the choice between a corn snake and a bearded dragon is a matter of preference. If you are looking for a pet that will be with you for a longer period of time, then a corn snake might be the best option for you.
However, if you have limited time or would like a shorter-term commitment, then a bearded dragon might be a better option. Whichever you choose, you can be sure to have many years of joy with your new pet.
Conclusion
Overall, Corn Snakes and Bearded Dragons are both excellent pets for reptile enthusiasts. They both require different levels of care and have many unique characteristics. It is important to research both species in order to make an informed decision as to which one is best for you.
Understanding the differences between the two can help to ensure a long and healthy relationship with your pet reptile.