Do Corn Snakes Like to Swim? Caring for Their Water and Swimming Needs

I’ve spent nearly 30 years raising and caring for corn snakes, and one of the most common questions I hear is, ‘Do corn snakes like to swim?’ As a long-time corn snake owner, I’ve had the opportunity to observe their behavior up close. While swimming isn’t something that’s necessary for their health, there are times when my corn snakes have shown interest in water. Some of them seem to enjoy a shallow bath, while others prefer to keep their distance. In this guide, I’ll share what I’ve learned about how corn snakes interact with water and what you can do to provide a safe, enjoyable environment for them.

Do Corn Snakes Like to Swim?

Corn snakes are primarily land-dwelling reptiles, so swimming isn’t something they naturally seek out. In my experience, most corn snakes don’t particularly ‘like’ to swim, but some may tolerate it or even seem curious about it if given the opportunity. However, they are not aquatic animals, and they don’t need to swim in order to stay healthy.

That being said, many corn snakes enjoy soaking in shallow water, especially during shedding. While this isn’t the same as swimming, it shows that they do have some interaction with water. So, while your corn snake may not actively enjoy swimming, offering a shallow, safe water source can still be beneficial.

Corn Snake Swimming and Water Safety

Even though corn snakes don’t naturally swim in the wild, they are capable of swimming if introduced to water in a controlled and safe environment. Since corn snakes are not strong swimmers like aquatic reptiles, ensuring water safety is essential to prevent any accidents.

The water in your snake’s enclosure should be shallow—around 1 to 2 inches—so they can comfortably explore without risk. Always monitor your corn snake when it’s near water, especially if it’s showing curiosity toward swimming.

It’s important to remember that not every corn snake will enjoy or tolerate swimming. If your snake shows signs of stress, such as trying to escape the water quickly, it’s best to remove them and avoid forcing the situation. Instead, provide a shallow dish of water for soaking, which is more commonly enjoyed by corn snakes during shedding or to cool off.

Best Water Temperatures for Corn Snakes

“Corn snakes thrive in environments with carefully regulated temperatures, and this applies to their water as well. When introducing water for soaking or swimming, it’s important to keep the water temperature between 75°F and 85°F (24°C to 29°C). Anything too cold can shock your snake, while water that’s too warm can cause discomfort or even harm.

A key reason why corn snakes might enjoy water is to regulate their body temperature or assist in shedding. A warm, shallow water dish can help soften their skin during the shedding process, making it easier for them to remove it. Just be sure to keep an eye on the temperature, and always provide a gradient of temperatures in their enclosure, with the warm end near the heat source.

See my article about temperature gradient and heat sources for proper water dish placement.

Why Some Corn Snakes Like Water

Just like humans, every corn snake has its own unique personality. While most corn snakes won’t actively seek out water for swimming, some may show a curiosity towards water, especially during shedding or when trying to cool down.

For some snakes, water can offer relief when they’re trying to loosen old skin during a shed. Additionally, soaking in shallow water may help with hydration or cooling down if their enclosure is a bit warm. However, it’s important to note that not all corn snakes will enjoy water, and it’s perfectly fine if yours prefers to stay dry. Always make sure to observe your snake’s behavior and respect its preferences.

Do Corn Snakes Need Swimming Opportunities?

“Corn snakes don’t need swimming opportunities to thrive, but providing access to water for soaking can be a great way to help them, especially during shedding. While swimming is not a natural or necessary activity for them, a shallow water dish allows them to hydrate and cool down.

If you decide to offer swimming opportunities, always make sure the water is shallow and your snake is comfortable. Keep in mind that their primary needs are a secure, warm, and clean environment with proper humidity levels, rather than regular access to swimming.

Key Takeaways: Corn Snakes and Water

• Corn snakes are terrestrial reptiles and do not naturally swim in the wild, but they can swim if introduced to shallow water safely.
• Providing shallow water for soaking can help with hydration and during shedding when they need to loosen their skin.
• Always monitor water temperature when offering water for your corn snake. Keep it between 75°F and 85°F (24°C to 29°C) for their comfort and safety.
• Not all corn snakes will enjoy water, and it’s important to respect their preferences. Forcing them to swim can cause stress.
• Swimming opportunities are not necessary for your corn snake’s health, but soaking in shallow water can be beneficial.
• Ensure that water provided for your corn snake is shallow (1-2 inches), to prevent any risks associated with drowning or stress.
• A proper heat source and controlled environment are more crucial for their overall health than access to water for swimming.