One of the reasons I live in this state is because we do not have poisonous snakes (who knows what will happen with the temps rising every year, though). I like snakes.. well, little ones, anyway. I've only seen one here in three years. My husband is glad because he hates snakes!
I'm glad you didn't kill it. And I agree, snakes do serve a purpose. What a beauty, though! And how huge!
-Meghan