Mike, you weren't here, so by your very absence, you aren't qualified to make any kind of judgment calls.

I didn't post here looking for affirmation, but to express my sorrow at what I had to do. I really don't give a rat's tail whether you think it was right or not. I was here. I saw the snake, and how it wasn't able to move below that injury. I also know my town, and know full well there isn't a qualified reptile vet available anywhere near here. And I wasn't about to drive to Memphis or Jackson to look for one. I know with absolute certainty that the absolute best I could do - apart from killing the animal - was to prolong its miserable existence so that it could die later, probably in excruciating pain.

So I really don't care whether I have your affirmation or not. I made the call, and my assessment that the absolute most humane thing to do was to end the creature's life still stands. So unless you can walk on water and have the ability to raise the snake from the dead, you and I have nothing to discuss. Good day to you, sir.