Corn Snake

The corn snake (Pantherophis guttatus) is a North American species of Rat snake known for its distinctive coloration and patterns, as well as its docile nature and adaptability to various environments. These characteristics have made it a popular choice among snake enthusiasts and collectors. In the late 19th century, the corn snake also found a niche market in the form of snake steelies, a type of mechanized creature that was sold at a secret shop on Graystone Row in The Barbary Coast.
Description and Distribution
Corn snakes are medium-sized, non-venomous snakes that typically reach lengths of 24 to 72 inches when fully grown. Their coloration varies but often includes shades of orange, red, and brown, with darker, irregularly shaped blotches along the length of their bodies. The patterns and colors of the corn snake are thought to mimic the appearance of the venomous copperhead, providing the corn snake with a level of protection from potential predators.
Native to the southeastern United States, corn snakes are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and abandoned buildings. They are skilled climbers and can often be found in trees, where they hunt for birds and their eggs. However, their primary prey is small rodents, which they kill through constriction.
Behavior and Captive Care
Corn snakes are known for their docile and relatively calm demeanor, which has made them popular among snake enthusiasts and collectors. In captivity, they are relatively low-maintenance pets, requiring a simple setup with appropriate heat, humidity, and hiding spots. They readily accept pre-killed rodents as food and can be easily handled, making them an attractive option for both novice and experienced snake keepers.
Snake Steelies
In the late 19th century, the corn snake found a unique application in the form of snake steelies, a type of mechanized creature inspired by the real-life reptiles. These mechanical marvels were sold at a secret shop on Graystone Row in the Barbary Coast, where the mysterious Evil Eye Syndicate offered a variety of unusual and exotic wares.
Snake steelies were crafted using a combination of metal components and materials that replicated the appearance and movements of live corn snakes. They were operated using intricate clockwork mechanisms and could be controlled by their owners, making them a fascinating curiosity and a status symbol among collectors.
The use of corn snake-inspired snake steelies highlights the enduring fascination with these remarkable reptiles and the various ways in which their unique characteristics have been appreciated and utilized throughout history.
Conclusion
Corn snakes are a remarkable species native to the southeastern United States, known for their distinctive appearance and docile nature. Their popularity as pets and the unique application of their likeness in the creation of snake steelies in the late 19th century demonstrate the enduring appeal of these fascinating reptiles. As both a living creature and an inspiration for mechanical innovations, the corn snake has left a lasting mark on the cultural and natural history of its native region.