the one time i've had to deal with mites they were tiny black bugs and they didnt exactly move slow. not fast by any means, but when i picked up the snake they were already crawling up my arms within 30 seconds. i'd still get the spray just in case. and keep your snake on paper towels. they're very easy to change out and since they're white its a lot easier to see the little buggers on when they die and fall off and if theres still any left.