[fred cook]

I've lived in the south all my life, seen lots of Eastern Diamondbacks. I've never seen a 3' snake that fat! Besides, the guys that killed it are "straight up" types. Also, he is holding the snake pretty close to his body. Not much of a perspective shift there. I believe that is at least an honest 8 footer! Maybe more.

Originally Posted by Heel n Toe

That snake could be only 3 feet long. You can't tell because the guy is holding it out toward the camera. Look up the terms "foreshortening" or "forced perspective."

This is a common internet ploy to sensationalize something that is unworthy of note. It's been done with everything from snakes to wild boars to gators and crocs.

Remember these?
snopes.com: 15-Foot Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake
snopes.com: 28-Ft. Florida Alligator