Well now I see the reason for the popcorn eating emote.
I have to disagree 110%.
Public space is public space and each and every one of us are a part of that public.
That said, there is absolutely no reason to "be a d***" about sharing public space with others and your snakes.
Keep in mind some people have genuine phobias. Respect this and do not make light of this affliction.
A local reptile group here has informal plans to exhibit our pets in public parks when the weather is suitable. A sort of respectful counter to main stream media biased reporting if you will.
I am a co-founder of a rather unpopular human rights group and my experience there has taught me much.
One being that you cannot let ignorance go unchallenged. If you engage people in a friendly manner and are respectful, you can bring many around to a more open minded view where they may not agree with you 100% but, they will give you a fair chance to make your argument and give it due consideration. This simply does not happen if you cower in your herp room and hope no one notices or comes for your animals.
It never hurts to support groups like USARK or CanHerp either. Become a member or just donate, these groups need your financial support to keep working for your rights.