What's in a name? This snake gets its common name from its habit of living near corncribs and cornfields. Its scientific name is derived from the Greek for deerskin (Elaphe) and the Latin for spotted or speckled (guttatus). The corn snake is also known as the "red rat snake" because of its red-orange coloring. Whatever you call it, this predator of mice and other small rodents is welcomed by wise farmers and a boon to agriculture.