Very nice photo -- one of the best in the challenge. I think I would have liked it even better if the grass had been cropped out. That would necessitate moving the hand in more also. The snake's skin is so pretty I wouldn't want anything to detract from it. I'm sure others will disagree. ;-)
Beautiful picture with great detail and a nice, simple composition. Maybe a little more contrast would help deepen the snake colors that appear a bit faded, but that's a small nitpick - this is a really excellent shot.