Most often, encountering occurs when you dodge a bit sideways and let the snake go. They are, in my opinion, somehow very interesting and often hopelessly hated.
wow !! How lucky you are to capture is !!!
Here I am, wandering for the past 11 years with the camera looking for a snake( a King Cobra to be specific :) and I have been drawing a blank!
Lovely shot !
It's a fine picture you took after the surprise. Some people love snakes but for most of us we want to stay away. At least leave them alone, A successful close-up.