Just a few days ago I got my first ball python. As far as I can tell and from what other have said on here he appears to be acting normally. I have been trying to avoid touching him too much while he acclimated and so it was only today that I noticed these dark spots. I'm not sure how to differentiate between actual color of the snake and mites yet, as I've heard that mites appear as little black dots. I haven't noticed him soaking in his bowl, any black dots in the bowl, or any dots on my hands the times I've held him so far. I've taken some pictures to show you guys so you can tell me whether or not I need to be concerned.