No disagreement about needing a dead snake for positive ID (or the need for a means to dispatch said snake). I don't carry snake shot in my revolver because I believe it compromises the defensive utility of the firearm in a larger setting.

I can kill a snake with a JHP if needed, but #9 shot is a poor substitute for a JHP for any use outside of a snake. I would rather not have my first shot be #9 if I might need it to defend against a large animal attack. I suppose if I frequently encountered snakes that needed attention, I could be compelled to load a speedstrip of shot and carry it for that purpose.